Earnest Jackson

Earnest Jackson (born December 18, 1959) is an American former professional football player who was a running back in the National Football League (NFL). He was named to the Pro Bowl twice. He played with the Chargers in 1983 and 1984, when he led the American Football Conference in rushing, with 1,179 yards for the year. In 1985, he had another 1,000 yard-plus season, this time with the Philadelphia Eagles for 1,028 yards.

His last three NFL seasons were from 1986 to 1988 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 1986, he was once again a Pro Bowler running for 910 yards and 5 touchdowns. Earnest Jackson ended his career with 4,167 yards on 1059 carries along with 22 touchdowns. He also caught the ball for 695 yards on 87 receptions and 2 touchdowns.

Jackson wore number 43 in Pittsburgh, where it is now unofficially retired for Hall of Fame safety Troy Polamalu.

NFL career statistics Legend Bold Career high

Year Team Games Rushing Receiving GP GS Att Yds Avg Lng TD Rec Yds Avg Lng TD 1983 SDG 12 0 11 39 3.5 6 0 5 42 8.4 10 0 1984 SDG 16 14 296 1,179 4.0 32 8 39 222 5.7 21 1 1985 PHI 16 11 282 1,028 3.6 59 5 10 126 12.6 25 1 1986 PIT 13 13 216 910 4.2 31 5 17 169 9.9 28 0 1987 PIT 12 9 180 696 3.9 39 1 7 52 7.4 23 0 1988 PIT 12 6 74 315 4.3 29 3 9 84 9.3 24 0 81 53 1,059 4,167 3.9 59 22 87 695 8.0 28 2