Iowa football RB Braeden Jackson named Big Ten Freshman of the Week

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The Iowa football program has another explosive weapon to get the ball to. And he picked up an impressive accolade on Monday.

Second-year running back Braeden Jackson was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week following a massive special teams play against Michigan. Jackson returned a first-quarter kickoff 99 yards to the house to tie the game at 7.

Jackson followed his blockers and turned on the jets to find the end zone. The Hawkeyes would go on to win the game, 20-19, picking up a huge victory in their pursuit of a College Football Playoff appearance.

The Ankeny, Iowa, native finished the game with two kick returns for 119 yards and a touchdown. He also had four carries for 13 yards. Jackson broke out last weekend against UNI, when he carried the ball 11 times for 125 yards and a touchdown. He also caught a touchdown in that game.

Jackson is the son of former NFL running back Fred Jackson. He's a walk-on at Iowa after not receiving a Division I offer out of high school. He's made the most of his opportunities in recent weeks and looks primed for a bigger role as the 2026 season progresses.

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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa football RB Braeden Jackson named Big Ten Freshman of the Week

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