Main Story

After four schools, repeated setbacks and a last-minute search for a starting job, Tayven Jackson has found his footing at North Texas. His breakout season has helped the Mean Green surge to a 6-2 start, while putting the former highly rated recruit back on the radar of NFL scouts.

By the Numbers
  • North Texas is 6-2 overall and 4-0 in American Athletic Conference play.
  • Jackson has thrown for 2,577 yards and 22 touchdowns, completing 72.3% of his passes.
  • He ranks third nationally in passing yards; North Texas ranks second in points per game.
  • At UCF last season, Jackson passed for 2,151 yards, 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 10 starts.
Yes, But

Jackson’s numbers reflect a major turnaround, but his path has included being benched at Indiana, playing through a shoulder injury at UCF and being told he no longer had a spot there. He says he understands those decisions better with age, and credits the experience with helping him mature.

State of Play
  • North Texas hired Neal Brown, who needed a quarterback; Jackson needed a place to start.
  • Jackson says his focus on staying present has helped him build confidence and avoid getting caught up in past setbacks or future uncertainty.
  • NFL scouts are visiting North Texas to evaluate him.
Bottom Line

Jackson’s comeback is powering North Texas’ early-season rise—and showing how persistence, experience and the right opportunity can revive a quarterback’s career.