Cowboy coach Matt Viator giving player a second chance

Janzen Jackson, an all-conference defensive back at the University of Tennessee last year, has enrolled at McNeese State and will join the Cowboy football team.

Cowboy head coach Matt Viator announce the addition of the Lake Charles product to the squad.

Viator said that Jackson will practice with the team on Sunday but that he will not be available for the season opener against Kansas on Sept. 3.

The coach said he was giving Jackson a second chance because, “I think the fact that not only myself but really, the majority of our coaching staff, has a history with Janzen and his Dad (former Cowboy player and assistant coach Lance Guidry). We watched him grow up and have seen some of the really good qualities that he has.

“Obviously he’s made some mistakes. He has an opportunity now to come home and get a second chance. We decided to give him that opportunity.”

In a statement, Jackson said, “I would like to thank McNeese for giving me the opportunity to come back home and continue my education and football career. I would also like to apologize to my family, friends and the University of Tennessee for the mistakes I have made. I realize how fortunate I am to get a second chance and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead.”

Viator said that the defensive back could possibly play in the Sioux Falls game (home opener on Sept. 17) but that it will depend on his progress, on his learning the team’s system and him getting off to the right start.

“I’m hoping that it makes all the difference for Janzen,” Viator added. “There’s no question that we’re trying to help the young man. I think that he is sincere in wanting a second chance. Not only that but I think that he’s sincere in wanting to be a part of this program.

“I had to be sure that he was interested in his education, that he wanted to get a degree as well as play football. He assured me he was and that was one of the reasons he wanted to come back here. He’s also a very good player, obviously, and he will be able to help us in that aspect.”

Jackson played two seasons at Tennessee, playing in 23 games and producing 106 tackles along with six pass interceptions which he returned for 143 yards. He became a starter for the Vols in his second game as a freshman.

The 6-0, 187 pounder was an all-American and all-state player at Barbe High (Lake Charles).


Similar Posts:

Share