Calgary Stampeders sign Braunschweig New Yorker Lions LB Basil Jackson

The Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League have announced the signing of linebacker Basil Jackson (Tarleton State University Texans, NCAA Div. II, Braunschweig New Yorker Lions)

The 25-year-old, 6′, 231 lb native of Arlington, Texas, was the leading tackler for the champions of the German Football League, the Braunschweig New Yorker Lions in 2019. In helping the Lions capture their 12th German title, he recorded 89 tackles as well as two sacks, three interceptions, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

Jackson spent two years playing or the Texans after transferring from Trinity Valley Community College. He earned a reputation as a tackling machine. In his senior year, he led the team in tackles with 122 (third nationally) in just 10 games, and as a junior was second in tackles with 84 while returning two interceptions for touchdowns. At one point, he was flirting with a 15 tackle per game average. Also in his Texan career, he totaled 17 tackles for loss and five sacks and earned a master’s degree in Business Administration. He was named to the CCA 2nd Team All Region Team. 

Prior to signing in Germany, Jackson had been invited for tryouts with the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks and had also attracted interest from other Canadian Football League teams.

Check out Basil Jackson’s highlights from 2019