What will Steven Jackson's legacy be in STL?
ROGER HENSLEY
November 23, 2010
QUESTION: This past weekend Steven Jackson moved into the Top 5 all-time in yards from scrimmage for the Rams. Over the years, some fans have been slow to embrace Jackson, though that momentum seems to be changing in recent years. When his playing days are over, what do you think Jackson’s legacy will be in St. Louis?
JIM THOMAS
Perhaps things will change over the second half of his career, but if they don’t, Jackson’s legacy will be that of a great player on bad teams. Kind of a right player/wrong time thing. But Jackson has matured over the years in St. Louis. He has developed into THE team leader, and his willingness to play hard and play hurt, week in and week out has helped changed his image in St. Louis.
BILL COATS
It’s been interesting to watch Steven Jackson mature over his seven seasons with the Rams. He was open with his feelings and thus misunderstood for a few years. Ultimately, I think his legacy will be as a fierce competitor, the most productive running back in franchise history, as well as a devoted team leader.
JEFF GORDON
His legacy depends on whether he lasts long enough to lead the Rams back into the postseason fray. If that occurs, then he will be remembered fondly. He may never be revered like Marshall Faulk, Isaac Bruce, Torry Holt and Kurt Warner, given the success of the “Greatest Show on Turf,” but he’ll reach the level right below that pantheon. If the Rams make it all the way back from 1-15 to respectability, the guys who made it happen will feel much love.
KEVIN WHEELER (Host of “Sports Open Line” on KMOX)
His legacy will probably depend on what happens with the team over the next few years. If they continue the upward trend then his legacy will be that he carried the team through the down years and helped get them back to the good times again. Unfortunately a player’s legacy is often tied directly to whether or not his team wins more games than they lose.
Independent of that, Jackson will go down as one of the hardest-working players in team history. He keeps himself in great shape year-round, he always plays hard and he plays hurt. He’s a gifted grinder. I really hope the talent level around him continues to improve because if it does we may finally see just how good he can be.
BERNIE MIKLASZ
Two words: Floyd Little. A really good back that gave his career to a losing cause. Little, however, made it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I don't think Jackson will get there. But he's had a fine career. One he should be proud of. As for his legacy in town, that's hard to say. I think people appreciate him more than they used to. But Jackson has always been a convenient target for Rams fans that desire to take their frustration out on someone prominent....
-11-23-2010, 08:32 PM
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