ESPN has provided knowledge and moved hearts with its compelling 30 for 30 series; however, Hard Knocks was one of the first big time sports documentaries since 2001.
Developed by HBO and NFL Films, Hard Knocks takes viewers inside life on the gridiron. It shows the passion, hard work, sweat and tears that players, coaches and fans face every day. The documentary also dives into the personal lives of athletes, displaying family members and friends. It’s main focus is to track the adjustment of rookies to the National Football League.
Houston, Texas will be the venue for Hard Knocks this season. The crew will capture every moment of its hometown program from training camp to the regular season.
Former Alabama cornerback Kareem Jackson is more so focused with his work on the field, but there will be multiple cameras on him. Houston selected Jackson in the first round (20th overall pick) of the 2010 NFL Draft. He enters his sixth season with the Texans, totaling 277 career tackles and 10 interceptions. Jackson had 57 tackles and three interceptions in 2014.
Jackson was a lockdown corner for Alabama from 2007-09. He recorded 49 tackles, 13 pass breakups and an interception in 14 games in 2009, making him a valuable part of the Crimson Tide’s SEC and national championship team that season.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
