Ottawa Redblacks running back Jackson Bennett announced his retirement on Monday.
Jackson Bennett is five foot ten and weighs 212 pounds. The 28-year-old Cumberland, Ontario, had 32 carries for 144 yards, targeted six times making five catches for 51 yards, one touchdown, six kickoffs for 154 yards, and two tackles on special teams in 10 games for the Redblacks in 2023.
“It’s truly been a blessing. I always dreamt of being a pro football player growing up, and it’s amazing to say I’ve experienced it,” said Bennett. “As I step into my next venture, I just really want to say thank you with everything I have. It all starts with the people, and I’ve been lucky enough to be associated with some great ones. So to my wife, family, friends, the Redblacks, the Tiger-Cats, and the CFL thank you and I appreciate you!”
Before Ottawa, Bennett spent three seasons with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2018-19, 2021) with 46 carries for 219 yards, one touchdown, 13 catches for 102 yards, seven kick returns for 155 yards, 25 tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble in 40 games.
The Redblacks signed Bennett as a free agent on February 8, 2022. In 2022, Bennett had 50 carries for 234 yards, 15 catches for 86 yards, and eight kick returns for 160 yards in 14 games.
Collegiately, Bennett played four seasons as a linebacker at the University of Ottawa (2014-17) with 108.5 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, three interceptions, nine pass breakups, one blocked kick, 40 kick returns for 1,050 yards, two touchdowns, and one carry for 15 yards in 23 games.
Jackson was named First Team All-OUA, Second Team All-OUA All-Star, Second Team U Sports All-Canadian, University of Ottawa Male Athlete of the Year, and Most Valuable Player in 2017.
