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INDIANAPOLIS – One round after taking defensive end Jonathan Newsome, a 4-3, 3-4 player from Ball State, the Colts took inside linebacker Andrew Jackson from Western Kentucky.

Jackson, 6-1, 254, was a four-year performer at middle linebacker, starting 33-of-37 career games.

Jackson became the 10th player in school history to record 300 tackles, amassing 326 (174 solo).  Among his accomplishments were 6.5 sacks and 43 tackles for losses. 

Jackson was an All-Sun Belt second-team choice as a senior with 95 tackles and one sack.  Jackson started nine contests, after starting 12 each as a sophomore and junior.

Jackson was not touted by analysts with exceptional lateral speed, but his physical and durable nature accounted for five fumbles forced and one fumble recovered.

He was a first-team all-conference pick as a junior and senior.  His career tackle total ranks 14th among active FBS players.

Jackson played in multiple defenses at Western Kentucky and feels comfortable on the inside, spots manned by Jerrell Freeman and D'Qwell Jackson.

Jackson said his contact with the Colts started around the East-West Game, and it remained steady.

"Since the East-West Game, I've been with the Colts a lot," said Jackson.  "They stayed on me.  I've been talking with the Colts for a while now."

Jackson is the second Colts player from Western Kentucky on roster.  Jack Doyle joined Indianapolis last season as an undrafted free agent.

Jackson, a Lakeland, Florida, product, played at the same high school as former Baltimore Ravens star Ray Lewis (Lakeland Senior High School).