The Buffalo Bills' 2025 draft class looks poised to report to training camp at full strength, and that includes promising third-round defensive end Landon Jackson. Despite briefly landing on the active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, the rookie has made it clear: he's ready to go when practice begins at St. John Fisher University on July 23.
Initial Uncertainty Around PUP Designation
Jackson’s appearance on the PUP list came as a mild surprise. The No. 72 overall pick had fully participated in June minicamp without any reported setbacks, so his placement on the list when rookies reported on July 15 raised some eyebrows. Fortunately, it now appears the move was strictly procedural.
Jackson addressed his status during an appearance at Mafia Con in Downtown Buffalo over the weekend. Speaking to Trainwreck Sports, he reassured fans and media alike that there’s nothing holding him back.
"Body feels great. I'm ready to get going. I'm going to be fully good to go for camp, so I'm really excited about it."
High Hopes for the Razorback Pass Rusher
Jackson arrives in Buffalo following a productive college career at Arkansas, where he logged 16 sacks and 28 tackles for loss. The Bills drafted him with the clear intention of building out their defensive end depth, especially after revamping the pass rush with the addition of Joey Bosa and Michael Hoecht this offseason.
While veterans Greg Rousseau and Joey Bosa are expected to start at defensive end, the competition behind them is wide open. Jackson will battle A.J. Epenesa, Javon Solomon, and Hoecht (after he serves a six-game suspension) for meaningful snaps in the rotation.
Rookie Mindset Focused on Earning Trust
Beyond his physical readiness, Jackson also seems mentally prepared for the NFL grind. His focus heading into camp is on proving himself to coaches and teammates.
"Earn the trust of my teammates and coaches. That's the only way, as a rookie, you can get on the field and excel."
It’s the right mindset for a player looking to make an immediate impact. With his size, production, and drive, Jackson could emerge as a key contributor in Buffalo's evolving defense.
Final Thoughts
With his health intact and his mindset locked in, Landon Jackson is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing rookies to watch when the Bills hit the field for training camp. If his college production can translate quickly, and he earns early trust within the locker room, he could carve out a significant role in Buffalo’s defensive line rotation right away.
Training camp starts July 23, and Jackson will be ready.
0 comments