Hawks' Safety Austin Jackson Balances Books and Blitzes
Bishop Hendricken's Austin Jackson is a force to be reckoned with on the field, as evidenced by his 12 tackles for loss in 2025. The senior safety's impressive defensive prowess has earned him a starting spot on the Hawks' varsity squad. But Jackson's academic prowess is just as impressive, as he maintains a 4.0 GPA while taking Advanced Placement courses. In a class of 2026 that's already drawing attention from college scouts, Jackson's unique blend of athleticism and academic acumen makes him a standout. Despite being a Division I school, the Rhode Island Interscholastic League (RIIL) doesn't have a RIIL classification system. Jackson's summer is filled with football camps and recruiting visits, as he looks to make a name for himself on the national stage. Scouts are watching to see how Jackson adapts to increased competition and whether he can maintain his academic excellence while taking on a heavier football workload.