Cal lands 2026 commitment from Long Beach Poly defensive back Deon Jackson
The California Golden Bears have two Junior Day commits in two days.
Things seem to go okay when Cal lands a D. Jackson from Long Beach Poly.
Coming off a very solid Junior Day, Cal secured its second 2026 commitment in as many days as Long Beach Poly defensive back Deon Jackson announced his pledge. Jackson, who has drawn interest from Power 4 programs, held early offers from UConn, Nevada, New Mexico, Sacramento State, and Washington State. Jackson is ranked by 247Sports as a top 100 California prospect.
Jackson’s positional versatility makes him an intriguing addition to the Golden Bears. He could thrive as a nickel back with his man-to-man coverage skills or transition to safety, given his ability to track the football and make plays in the open field. Check out his Hudl tape here.
His commitment marks Cal’s third overall for the 2026 class, joining Corona (Ca.) Centennial linebacker Jonathan McKinley and Santa Margarita Catholic (via Rancho Santa Margarita (Ca.) cornerback Jayden Crowder. Jackson cited Cal’s post-football opportunities and the coaching staff’s honesty as key factors in his decision.
"What made the program the best fit for me was the life after ball and how they could help me in so many ways," Jackson told 247Sports. "What I like about the staff is they're very straight forward and transparent as can be. I'm super excited about my commitment and the staff were very amped up about it."
In 10 games as a junior last season, the 5-foot-10, 165-pound Jackson recorded 28 tackles, six pass deflections, and one interception. A varsity player since his freshman year in 2022, he brings experience and playmaking ability to the Golden Bears' secondary.
Welcome to Cal Deon! Go Bears!
D. Jackson from Long Beach Poly going to Cal?
May he earn even more success than DeSean
He was probably born after DeSean finished playing football at Cal. I feel so old.