Kearis Jackson and the Houston Texans sign a future-reserve contract.

Kearis Jackson and the Houston Texans Sign a Future-Reserve Contract: A New Beginning for the Former Georgia Bulldog

In the world of professional football, opportunities often arise in unexpected ways. For Kearis Jackson, a former standout wide receiver for the University of Georgia, a new chapter in his football career is beginning as he signs a future-reserve contract with the Houston Texans. This contract, while not guaranteeing an immediate spot on the roster, marks an important step for Jackson as he looks to continue his professional journey in the NFL.

Jackson’s journey to the NFL has been full of ups and downs, but through it all, he has consistently demonstrated resilience, skill, and a strong work ethic. His signing with the Texans signifies a fresh opportunity to showcase his abilities, earn a spot on an NFL roster, and contribute to a team that is still in the process of building and developing. As he prepares for the upcoming season, Jackson will look to use this second chance to prove that he belongs at the highest level of football.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Kearis Jackson’s journey from high school to the University of Georgia, his time in Athens, the circumstances surrounding his signing with the Houston Texans, and what the future may hold for him in the NFL.

Early Life and Recruitment: The Foundation of a Football Career

Kearis Jackson was born on September 1, 1999, in Macon, Georgia, where his love for football began at a young age. Growing up, Jackson excelled in multiple sports, but it was football where he truly shined. As a standout athlete at Peach County High School, Jackson quickly earned a reputation as one of the most dynamic and versatile players in Georgia.

During his high school career, Jackson was not only a playmaker on offense but also a key contributor on special teams. His speed and agility allowed him to make plays in the open field, and he became known for his ability to create separation from defenders. His combination of size, speed, and route-running ability made him one of the top wide receiver prospects in the state of Georgia.

Jackson’s standout performances in high school caught the attention of college recruiters from across the country, but it was the University of Georgia (UGA) that ultimately won his commitment. As part of Georgia’s 2018 recruiting class, Jackson was seen as a potential future star for the Bulldogs’ offense. His decision to stay in-state and play for a premier program like Georgia was a big deal, and expectations were high for him to make an immediate impact once he arrived in Athens.

A Successful Career at Georgia

Jackson’s time at Georgia was filled with both triumphs and challenges. From the moment he stepped on campus, it was clear that Jackson had the physical tools to succeed at the college level. However, his path to becoming a key contributor for the Bulldogs was not without hurdles.

In his first year at Georgia, Jackson did not play a significant role in the offense but was still able to make an impact on special teams, showcasing his speed and versatility. The following year, Jackson began to see more action as a receiver, and his development under Georgia head coach Kirby Smart and offensive coordinator James Coley allowed him to grow into a reliable target for Georgia’s quarterbacks.

Jackson’s biggest contributions came during his junior and senior seasons, when he emerged as one of Georgia’s top receiving threats. During these years, Jackson’s role in the offense became more prominent, and he became known for his ability to make key catches in critical moments. Whether it was his quick burst off the line of scrimmage, his precise route running, or his ability to make contested catches, Jackson’s skill set made him a valuable asset for the Bulldogs.

Over his four years at Georgia, Jackson accumulated over 1,500 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, but his impact extended beyond just the box score. He was known for his toughness, his ability to create separation from defenders, and his leadership on and off the field. Jackson’s combination of hands, speed, and football IQ made him a reliable option for Georgia’s quarterbacks, including Jake Fromm and Stetson Bennett.

Despite the success he had at Georgia, Jackson faced challenges when it came to translating that success to the professional level. His physical tools, while impressive, were sometimes overshadowed by concerns about his size and explosiveness compared to other wide receivers in the draft class. However, Jackson’s determination to prove himself and his ability to contribute in various ways gave him an opportunity to continue pursuing his football dreams at the next level.

The NFL Journey: Signing with the Houston Texans

After going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Kearis Jackson was not discouraged. He signed with the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent and spent time in their offseason program. Unfortunately, he did not make the Cowboys’ final roster, but this setback didn’t deter Jackson from continuing to pursue his NFL dream. He knew that his journey was far from over and that opportunities in the NFL are often earned through persistence and hard work.

While the road to the NFL is often filled with uncertainty, Jackson remained focused on his goal. After his time with the Cowboys, Jackson found himself without a team for a brief period but continued to stay in top physical shape, knowing that another opportunity could come his way at any moment.

That opportunity came when the Houston Texans signed Jackson to a future-reserve contract in January 2025. A future-reserve contract is typically given to players who have not been on a team’s active roster for a full season but are still considered potential contributors. These contracts allow teams to secure players for the next season, giving them the opportunity to participate in offseason activities, training camps, and possibly earn a spot on the final 53-man roster.

The Texans’ decision to sign Jackson is a promising development for the young wide receiver. The Texans, who have been in the process of rebuilding their roster, are looking to add talent and depth at the wide receiver position. Jackson’s versatility, athleticism, and potential as a playmaker on special teams make him an intriguing addition to the Texans’ roster. With his ability to contribute as both a receiver and on special teams, Jackson has the chance to carve out a role for himself on a team that is building for the future.

What Jackson Brings to the Texans

Kearis Jackson’s signing with the Houston Texans presents an opportunity for both Jackson and the team. As the Texans continue to develop their roster and build around their young quarterback, C.J. Stroud, the addition of Jackson brings depth and competition to their wide receiver group.

Jackson’s most significant strengths are his speed and quickness. He is a precise route runner with the ability to separate from defenders, and his agility makes him a threat in the open field. Although he may not have the size or explosive speed of some of the NFL’s top wide receivers, Jackson’s work ethic, football IQ, and ability to make plays in the clutch can make him a valuable asset in the Texans’ offense.

In addition to his receiving skills, Jackson has also shown that he is capable of contributing on special teams, an area where many young players make their mark early in their careers. His ability to return punts and kicks adds another dimension to his game, and the Texans could look to utilize him in a variety of ways to maximize his impact.

For Jackson, making the most of this opportunity will be key. He will need to impress the Texans’ coaching staff during the offseason and training camp, showing that he has the ability to not only contribute on special teams but also be a reliable receiving option when called upon. While it won’t be an easy road, Jackson has proven that he is willing to work hard and do whatever it takes to achieve his goal of making it in the NFL.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Kearis Jackson

As Kearis Jackson begins his journey with the Houston Texans, the road ahead is uncertain but filled with potential. A future-reserve contract is not a guarantee of a spot on the final roster, but it is a sign that the Texans see something in Jackson and believe he has the potential to contribute in the future.

The next few months will be crucial for Jackson. He will have the opportunity to participate in the Texans’ offseason program, work with their coaching staff, and prove that he can make an impact on the field. He will need to continue to develop his route-running, improve his ability to create separation, and build chemistry with the team’s quarterbacks. Most importantly, Jackson will need to demonstrate the kind of consistency and reliability that can earn him a spot on the final roster.

For Jackson, this is not the end of the road, but rather a fresh beginning. After overcoming the disappointment of going undrafted and facing the challenges that come with trying to make it in the NFL, Jackson’s signing with the Texans represents a second chance to achieve his dreams. His story serves as a reminder that perseverance, hard work, and determination can lead to new opportunities, even in the face of adversity.