Jeffcoat and Teammates React to All-America Honors (Video)

Senior DE Jackson Jeffcoat became the fifth consensus AP All-Ameirca defensive end in school history, joining the likes of Tony Brackens, Bill Atessis, Hub Bechtol, Carlton Massey and Brian Orakpo.

“It’s an honor to be mentioned in the same sentence as all the great defensive ends that come to the University of Texas,” Jeffcoat said. “I feel like it’s a fraternity, and now I’m joining the fraternity.”

Jeffcoat finished his senior year with 73 total tackles (21 for loss) and 12 sacks – the third most in FBS.

Jeffcoat’s fellow teammates didn’t shy away from offering praise for the consensus All-American.

“He’s continually been a leader for us, even thru his injuries these last couple years,” QB Case McCoy said. “He’s never faded back, he’s been out there and put himself forth for this team and continued to work hard.

“A leader has to be someone who’s continually fighting, overcoming and still believing, and getting your teammates to do the same. And it’s a testament to him, because that’s exactly what he’s done.”

Jeffcoat suffered a season-ending injury last year against Oklahoma, but returned to lead a rejuvenated defense under new defensive coordinator Greg Robinson in 2013.

“When there was a big play that needed to be made, I wanted to make that play,” Jeffcoat said. “I wanted to be the guy that they could depend on when it was third and long and they needed a big sack. So, I said ‘put it on my shoulders, I’ll get it.’”