Feb. 4, 2026, 4:05 p.m. ET
Tennessee State announced that former Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Dexter Jackson has been promoted to assistant head coach, defensive backs coach, and passing game coordinator.
The move elevates Jackson to a broader leadership role within the Tigers program as he continues to build his coaching résumé. After previously working with the secondary, he will now help guide the overall team structure while maintaining direct oversight of the defensive backs and contributing to passing-game strategy.
Jackson’s credibility comes from an accomplished NFL career. He spent 10 seasons with the Buccaneers, recording 330 solo tackles, 106 assists, 5.0 sacks, 5 fumble recoveries, and 17 interceptions. His defining moment came in Super Bowl XXXVII, where he earned MVP honors after a two-interception performance in Tampa Bay’s championship victory.
That experience gives Jackson instant authority when working with young defensive backs as they learn positioning, discipline, and ball skills. His promotion reflects Tennessee State’s confidence in both his football knowledge and leadership ability.
For Buccaneers fans, it is another example of a former franchise cornerstone continuing to impact the game well beyond his playing days.
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