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Bo Jackson

Bo Jackson is an American former professional athlete known for playing both Major League Baseball and the National Football League.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Bo Jackson is an American former professional athlete known for playing both Major League Baseball and the National Football League. Born Vincent Edward Jackson in 1962, he became famous for his elite speed, power, and rare success in two major North American sports. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around athletes in history.

Early life and college career

Jackson was born in Bessemer, Alabama, and attended Auburn University, where he became a standout running back and won the 1985 Heisman Trophy. He also played baseball and track while at Auburn.

Professional baseball career

Jackson played in Major League Baseball for the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and California Angels. His MLB career included 141 home runs and an All-Star Game MVP award in 1989.

Professional football career

Jackson played running back for the Los Angeles Raiders while also continuing his baseball career. He was known for breakaway speed and rare big-play ability, including long touchdown runs.

Injuries and later life

A serious hip injury shortened Jackson's playing career and eventually forced him out of professional sports. After retiring, he remained a prominent public figure and was associated with the long-running 'Bo Knows' advertising campaign.

Key facts

  • Jackson starred in both baseball and football at Auburn University and won the Heisman Trophy in 1985.
  • He played Major League Baseball from 1986 to 1994 and National Football League games for the Los Angeles Raiders from 1987 to 1990.
  • In MLB, he was an All-Star and won the 1989 All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award.
  • In the NFL, he was known for exceptional speed and powerful running, including several long touchdown runs.
  • His injury-shortened career and Nike's 'Bo Knows' campaign made him a major sports and pop-culture figure.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Bo Jackson?
Bo Jackson is a former American professional athlete who played both Major League Baseball and the National Football League.
What sports did Bo Jackson play professionally?
He played baseball in MLB and football in the NFL.
What college did Bo Jackson attend?
He attended Auburn University.
What award did Bo Jackson win in college?
He won the Heisman Trophy in 1985.
Which MLB teams did Bo Jackson play for?
He played for the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and California Angels.
Why is Bo Jackson famous?
He is famous for excelling in two major professional sports and for becoming a cultural icon through both his athletic achievements and advertising.

References

  1. Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Bo-Jackson
    Supports: Birth details, American athlete identity, and overview of dual-sport professional career.
  2. National Football Foundationhttps://footballfoundation.org/honors/hall-of-fame/bo-jackson/2042
    Supports: Auburn career, Heisman Trophy, birthplace, and football background.
  3. NFLhttps://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/characters-39
    Supports: NFL career with the Los Angeles Raiders, two-sport status, and 'Bo Knows' cultural impact.
  4. Baseball-Referencehttps://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jacksbo01.shtml
    Supports: MLB teams, career statistics, position, and career span.
  5. Major League Baseballhttps://www.mlb.com/player/bo-jackson-116446
    Supports: Full name, birth date, college, draft information, and MLB debut.