Tanard Jackson attended Bullis High School in Silver Spring, Maryland. He was named first team all-county as a freshman and sophomore. He was also named first team all-metro as a sophomore. As a junior, Tanard totaled 60 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 19 pass breakups. He was named team defensive player of the year at the conclusion of the season. Tanard earned first team all-county, all-metro, and all-state honors for his play as a junior. He served as team captain his senior season as he rushed for 1,132 yards and racked up 483 receiving yards with 15 total touchdowns. On the defensive side of the ball he finished with 78 tackles, 2 sacks, and 4 interceptions. He was named first team all-county, all-metro, and all-state. Additionally, he was named team MVP following the season. Tanard finished his career with 3,121 rushing yards, 1,007 receiving yards, 39 touchdowns, and 252 tackles. His 19 career interceptions set a school record. Tanard accepted a scholarship to Syracuse where he saw action in 11 games as a true freshman, primarily on special teams. He finished the season with 5 tackles. He earned a starting job his sophomore season, totaling 56 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 4 pass breakups on the year. As a junior, Tanard started all 11 games. He finished the season with 42 tackles, 1 interception and a career high 6 pass breakups. He saved his best performance for his senior season, setting career highs in tackles (57), sacks (2 ½), forced fumbles (1), and interceptions (2). He also broke up 4 passes on the season.

Tanard Jackson has a ton of experience, having started the past three seasons for Syracuse. He has a good combination of size and athleticism for a cornerback. He has fluid hips and a good backpedal. He is a physical defensive back who is effective in both man and zone coverages. He will step up and support the run. He is a hard hitter and a solid tackler. He has the size and physical play to matchup against bigger, stronger receivers; however, he lacks elite speed for a cornerback and will get beat deep at times. Tanard is a player who could project as either a cornerback or a safety at the next level depending on the team that drafts him. I expect him to be drafted as a cornerback due to the need most teams have for a corner with his size. Tarnard Jackson should be a first day pick and could be selected as a high as the late second round of the 2007 NFL draft.