The dust has settled on the 2024 NFL Draft, a pivotal moment for aspiring football stars and a turning point for teams looking to bolster their rosters with fresh talent. Amidst the glitz and glamour of draft day, two collegiate talents from Temecula carved their path to the pros, each taking significant steps in their football careers. Brennan Jackson, a defensive powerhouse, and Easton Gibbs, a tackling maestro, have given the Temecula community ample reasons to celebrate.
Brennan Jackson: Coming home to California
For Brennan Jackson, draft day was more than just the next step in his athletic career; it was a homecoming. Surrounded by loved ones in his hometown of Temecula, the tension broke with a decisive phone call. With the 154th overall pick, the Rams announced they were bringing Jackson back to Southern California. “It’s amazing, it’s an amazing feeling just knowing that my family is right here,” Jackson shared, reflecting on the joy of playing close to home again.
Jackson’s collegiate career at Washington State University was marked by relentless determination and a knack for disruptive play. His final year showcased his abilities, leading the Cougars with substantial defensive stats and earning second-team All-Pac-12 honors. Known for his tireless effort, the former Great Oak standout embodies the ethos that hard work and perseverance lead to success.
Joining the Rams’ defensive lineup could be pivotal in the team’s efforts to revamp their pass rush in the wake of Aaron Donald’s retirement. Meanwhile, Gibbs looks to imprint his mark on the Seahawks, bringing his tackling prowess and work ethic to enhance the team’s defensive unit.
Easton Gibbs: A Cowboy turns Seahawk
Easton Gibbs, whose draft day ended differently, quickly turned disappointment into opportunity. Shortly after the draft’s conclusion, as an undrafted free agent, Gibbs signed with the Seattle Seahawks, proving that the end of the draft is not the end of the road. His notable career at the University of Wyoming, adorned with commendable accolades and impressive stats, caught the Seahawks’ attention, setting the stage for his NFL debut.
Gibbs, a former Temecula Valley High School standout, has always been a force on the field, finishing his college career as one of the top tacklers in school history. Despite facing setbacks, such as underwhelming combine results, Gibbs’ resilience and on-field instincts shone through, earning him a spot with the Seahawks.
From Chaparral to the Big League
In an inspiring turn of events for Temecula’s sports enthusiasts, two more local football stars, Justin Dedich and Steven Jones, have made significant strides in their professional careers by signing as undrafted free agents after the conclusion of the 2024 NFL Draft. Both Dedich and Jones honed their skills on the football field at Chaparral High School before making their mark in college football—Dedich at USC and Jones at Oregon.
Justin Dedich was a formidable offensive lineman at USC and is now set to bring his talents closer to home with the Los Angeles Rams. This opportunity is especially meaningful for Dedich, as it allows him to remain in Los Angeles, minimizing the upheaval often associated with the transition to professional sports.
Steven Jones’ path also took a slightly different turn after the 2024 NFL Draft, leading him to an undrafted free agent contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite not being selected in the draft, Jones’ ambitions remain unshaken. Known for his versatility and resilience, Jones—an Oregon Ducks standout who excelled as a right guard—is eagerly looking forward to the offseason workouts and the chance to secure a position on the Jaguars’ 90-man roster.
Looking Ahead: Rookie minicamp and beyond
For Dedich and Jones, as well as for Gibbs and Jackson, the conclusion of the NFL Draft marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. All four are set to transition into their professional careers amidst a packed NFL offseason schedule. Rookie minicamps in early May will be their first official introduction to the NFL pace, with Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and training camps following shortly.
Celebrating Temecula’s talent
These Temecula natives join an outstanding 2024 class of football athletes playing professionally. Local names like Antonio Mitchell Jr. (San Diego Strike Force), Kevin Atkins (St Louis Battlehawks), Lorenzo Burns (Birmingham Stallions), Simeon Burns (Quad City Steamwheelers), Ryan Pope (Michigan Panthers), Ryan Nelson (Michigan Panthers), Metoriah Faliou (Minnesota Myth), and Malik Lawal (Memphis Showboats) have all taken a step toward the grand stage and their journeys serve as inspiration. Their stories of perseverance, dedication, and community support highlight the essence of what makes sports so captivating.
The 2024 NFL Draft may have concluded, but the real game is just beginning for these hometown studs. As they prepare for the arduous and rewarding path ahead, the Temecula community and football fans nationwide will be watching, cheering them on every step of the way.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com.
