Mike Jackson, a cornerback for the Carolina Panthers, is using his offseason to engage in some friendly family competition. He plans to test his skills against his cousin, Jeremiah Tabb, a 3-star recruit from Hoover High School in Alabama. The two have agreed on a bet to see who can win more one-on-one reps over two days.
“I have a little cousin who, I think he’s like a (3-star) now, he plays receiver, so we made a bet,” Jackson shared during mandatory minicamp.
Tabb has received offers from several schools, including Kentucky and Arkansas. However, if Alabama offers him a spot, Jackson believes that’s where Tabb will go.
The challenge involves 100 reps each day of one-on-ones at Jackson’s house. The stakes are high; if Tabb wins, Jackson will buy him whatever he wants. If Jackson prevails, he gets to choose Tabb’s first-day-of-school outfit.
“He thinks he’s so good. I’m like, bro, you have no idea,” laughed Jackson.
Jackson’s competitive spirit extends beyond family as he applies the same pressure with the Panthers’ young receivers during practice sessions. Coach Dave Canales encourages this approach as it helps elevate players’ games by creating challenging matchups every day.
“We talk about it all the time; we make us,” Canales said during OTAs.
Jackson emphasizes that while competition is fierce on the field, support is equally important off it. He sees potential in Tetairoa McMillan and aims to help him improve through constructive feedback.
“I just see the potential,” Jackson said of McMillan.
Despite recognizing talent in others like McMillan and his cousin Tabb, Jackson remains committed to maintaining bragging rights through these competitions until their next encounter.
“Oh no, he’s gonna get it,” Jackson smiled.
