FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Former Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Landon Jackson is making headlines off the field in his rookie season with the Buffalo Bills—not just for his football skills, but for his mission to inspire young people affected by hair loss.
Diagnosed with alopecia at age five, Jackson has spent most of his life battling the autoimmune disease that causes sudden and unpredictable hair loss. Now, as a third-round NFL draft pick, he is using his platform to raise awareness and support youth mental health.
From Childhood Anxiety to NFL Confidence
Growing up with alopecia wasn’t easy for Jackson. The condition brought anxiety and constant worry about how others viewed him.
“Ever since I was a kid, it brought me a lot of anxiety,” Jackson said at a recent Bills rookie minicamp. “Not depression, just that I was always thinking about everything, always worrying about what other people thought.”
Sports became a safe haven. Football helped him build confidence, focus his energy, and find a strong sense of self. Over time, Jackson embraced his condition and turned it into a source of strength.
A Role Model for Kids with Hair Loss
Now on the NFL stage, Jackson wants to be a voice for young people living with alopecia.
“I want to be a role model for all the kids growing up with hair loss,” he said. “I want to give back to those kids in any way I can because it really affects the mental health of young people.”
During his time at Arkansas, Jackson often met with young fans who had alopecia. He offered words of encouragement and frequently gave away his gloves after games—a small but meaningful gesture that left lasting impressions.
Spreading Positivity Through Social Media
Jackson is also open about his journey on social media. He regularly posts messages about self-love, confidence, and awareness.
“I love my hair and I love who I am,” he shared. “I love who I am because it makes me who I am today. So if you have alopecia, or anything like that, love yourself.”
He encourages young people to accept themselves and become role models for others.
“Accept who you are,” he said. “Try to grow up to be a role model for young kids with alopecia. Keep doing it, because I think it’s definitely a good thing to have that awareness.”
Inspired by Others in the League
Jackson is not alone in this mission. Other NFL players, including quarterback Josh Dobbs, have also spoken out about hair loss and self-confidence.
Jackson credits players like former NBA forward Charlie Villanueva and ex-Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier for inspiring him to speak up and give back.
Focused on Football and the Future
While Jackson is passionate about raising awareness, he remains focused on football. He has impressed coaches and scouts during rookie minicamp and is competing for a roster spot alongside eight other Bills draft picks and undrafted free agents.
“This is the first time I’ve played football since the Senior Bowl,” Jackson said. “Go to the training room, take a cold shower, recover a little bit, and then come back tomorrow.”
Buffalo Bills General Manager Brandon Beane praised Jackson’s character and athletic ability.
“High character, good DNA, great athleticism, a lot of sacks,” Beane said. “He has gone against a lot of the top guys in the SEC and done well. He knows how to charge. He has the feel, the instincts, the awareness.”
As Jackson begins his NFL career, he brings with him not only a powerful defensive presence but also a personal mission to support those who need encouragement—and to remind them that they are not alone.
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