Skip to main content

Devin McCourty Names Ex-Patriots RB 'One Of Worst' To Tackle

Former New England Patriots safety Devin McCourty has revealed that 12-year NFL veteran running back Steven Jackson was among the most challenging players to tackle.
  • Author:
  • Publish date:

Retired safety Devin McCourty mentioned a former New England Patriots running back who he considered one of the most challenging players to tackle. 

That player happened to be the former three-time Pro Bowler, Steven Jackson.

With a height of 6-foot-2 and weighing in at 240 pounds, Jackson was a strong presence on the field, utilizing his size advantage to amass an impressive total of 2,764 carries for 11,438 yards and 59 touchdowns throughout his 12-year NFL career.

Having experienced it firsthand, McCourty recently took to Twitter to reflect on his arduous encounter with Jackson. The safety vividly recalled the challenges he faced during a preseason game in 2010, where he gained valuable insight into the remarkable abilities of the elusive running back.

Jackson and McCourty briefly shared the field as teammates during the final stage of Jackson's career. In the 2015 season, Jackson signed with the Patriots in December as the team prepared for a postseason push. Although their journey ended in the AFC Championship against the eventual Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos, Jackson made an impact by rushing for a touchdown during the game. It was a memorable moment for Jackson, as it turned out to be his last professional game before retiring.

In July 2019, he chose to sign a one-day contract with the Los Angeles Rams, symbolically retiring as a member of the team. This special gesture enabled him to pay homage to his nine-year tenure with the franchise, during their years in St. Louis.

Looking back with a sense of nostalgia, it is truly fascinating to explore the players who have left an indelible mark on McCourty's career. These difficult opponents have challenged his talents and played a significant role in shaping his enduring presence in the NFL.


Follow Jacob Hare on Twitter.

Follow Patriots Country on Twitter and Facebook

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Patriots? Click Here

More Patriots coverage from Sports Illustrated here.