American · Bessemer, Alabama · Born 30 November 1962American two-sport athlete who played both NFL football and Major League Baseball, known for exceptional athletic ability across multiple sports.
Born Vincent Edward Jackson in Bessemer, Alabama, on November 30, 1962, Bo Jackson overcame a challenging childhood to become one of America's most celebrated athletes. Raised in a low-income household, he initially struggled academically and athletically before discovering his extraordinary natural abilities. At McAdory High School, he excelled in multiple sports, earning a scholarship to Auburn University where he would make history. At Auburn from 1982 to 1985, Jackson established himself as college football's premier running back while simultaneously competing in baseball and track. His powerful running style and breakaway speed made him nearly unstoppable, culminating in his 1985 Heisman Trophy victory. Despite being selected first overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1986 NFL Draft, Jackson chose professional baseball instead, signing with the Kansas City Royals. The Los Angeles Raiders later selected him in the seventh round of the 1987 supplemental draft, allowing him to pursue his unprecedented dual-sport career. Jackson became the first athlete to earn All-Star honors in both major professional sports, achieving MLB All-Star status in 1989 and NFL Pro Bowl recognition in 1990. His most memorable performances included a 221-yard rushing game against Seattle in 1987 and leading off the 1989 All-Star Game with a home run. Jackson's combination of size, speed, and power produced legendary moments that transcended typical athletic achievements, including his famous wall-climbing catch and bat-breaking incidents. A devastating hip injury suffered during a January 1991 playoff game against Cincinnati effectively ended Jackson's two-sport career at age 28. Though he attempted a baseball comeback, he never regained his previous form. Jackson's cultural impact extended beyond statistics through Nike's "Bo Knows" advertising campaign, which became an iconic representation of athletic versatility. His brief but spectacular career redefined the possibilities of professional sports, making him a lasting symbol of raw athletic talent and cross-sport excellence.
Being the only athlete to be named an All-Star in both the NFL and MLB
How They Played
Explosive power runner with exceptional speed and strength, known for breaking tackles and long touchdown runs
Lasting Impact
Considered one of the greatest athletes of all time, demonstrated unprecedented success playing two professional sports simultaneously
Career Honours
- Pro Bowl 1990
- NFL Rookie of Year
- MLB All-Star 1989
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Raiders | 1987–1990 | 38 |
American Athletes