Bo Jackson: Is Ohio State’s Bo Jackson Related to the Legend? How Old Is He & Where Is He From

Every college football season, fans get excited when they hear the name “Bo Jackson.” It immediately brings to mind one of the most iconic athletes in American sports history — the two-sport legend famed for his success in both football and baseball. But there’s a new Bo Jackson making waves with the Ohio State Buckeyes, and many have the same question: Is he related to the legendary Bo Jackson? Along with that, fans want to know where he’s from, how old he is, and how he rose to prominence. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Bo Jackson of Ohio State — his background, journey, and what makes him stand out. 

Introduction: A Name That Commands Attention

When Ohio State Buckeye fans heard “Bo Jackson” on a roster, jaws dropped. After all, the name is etched into sports history from the Heisman Trophy days and unforgettable highlight reels. Yet despite sharing a name with one of sports’ most electric figures, this Bo Jackson has his own story — one rooted in Ohio and one that’s only just beginning to unfold on the collegiate stage. 

Let’s break down everything from his name and possible relations to his age, birthplace, athletic background, and future potential.

1. Who Is Ohio State’s Bo Jackson?

Before we talk family connections or comparisons, let’s start with the basics.

Ohio State’s Bo Jackson is a freshman running back who plays for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. He enrolled early in Spring 2025 and immediately made an impression with his combination of size, speed, and versatility. 

Real Name & Nickname

Although he goes by “Bo Jackson,” that’s not his birth name. He was born Lamar Jackson Jr., and “Bo” is a nickname he received early in life — a nod to the famed two-sport athlete that inspires many young players. 

This nickname stuck with him throughout his youth and high school career, and now to his college days. But it’s important for fans to understand that Ohio State’s Bo Jackson is a distinct individual, building his own legacy on the gridiron. 

2. Is Ohio State’s Bo Jackson Related to the Legendary Bo Jackson?

A question on everyone’s mind: Is he related to the Bo Jackson who starred in both the NFL and MLB?

The short answer: No.

Ohio State’s Bo Jackson is not related to the legendary Bo Jackson who starred for the Los Angeles Raiders, Kansas City Royals, and won the 1985 Heisman Trophy. Although they share a name, this is purely coincidental — and a fortunate one at that for trivia buffs. 

Here’s why confusion persists:

• Both athletes are known as “Bo Jackson.”

• Both play running back in football.

• Both have impressive skills and athleticism.

But beyond the shared name and position, there is no familial relationship between the Ohio State freshman and the legendary two-sport athlete. 

3. Bo Jackson’s Age: How Old Is He?

Ohio State’s Bo Jackson is a young athlete in the early stages of his college career. While exact publicly listed ages for college freshmen can vary and are sometimes not explicitly published, since he is a freshman in the 2025 season, we can reasonably estimate his age to be around 18–19 years old — the typical age range for incoming college freshmen. 

As an early enrollee, he also participated in spring drills ahead of his first full season with the Buckeyes — an indicator he is at the age expected of a college freshman athlete. 

4. Where Is Bo Jackson From? Cleveland Roots

Unlike the legendary Bo Jackson who hailed from Bessemer, Alabama, Ohio State’s Bo Jackson is rooted in Ohio itself.

He was born and raised in the Cleveland, Ohio area and attended Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School — a school known for producing talented football players and competitive athletic teams. 

Learning his high school background gives fans insight into his development as an athlete and what shaped his early years before college football. Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

• High School: Villa Angela-St. Joseph

• Position: Running Back

• Recruiting: Four-star prospect in the 2025 class

• Offers: Multiple Power Five programs, including Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan 

5. Athletic Background & High School Success

Before his arrival at Ohio State, Bo Jackson was standout talent in high school sports:

Football Excellence

At Villa Angela-St. Joseph, he dominated defenses with his powerful running style, making him one of the top running backs in the 2025 recruiting class nationwide. 

Multi-Sport Athlete

True to the legacy of his nickname, he wasn’t limited to football. He also competed in:

• Baseball

• Track & Field

This multi-sport background contributed to his athletic versatility, speed, and explosiveness — traits that make him an exciting prospect on the collegiate level. 

6. Choosing Ohio State: Why the Buckeyes?

In a competitive recruiting landscape, Bo Jackson chose Ohio State over several elite programs, including:

• Alabama

• Georgia

• Penn State

• Michigan

His decision was influenced by a combination of:

• The Buckeyes’ winning tradition

• A strong commitment to player development

• A “family atmosphere” cited by the player during recruiting talks 

It’s clear that Ohio State provided the best path for Jackson’s growth both on and off the field.

7. Bo Jackson’s First Year at Ohio State: Impact & Expectations

In his freshman season, Jackson made an immediate impact:

• Contributing meaningful rushing yards

• Showing potential as a future star in the Buckeyes’ offense

• Gaining early experience in a competitive Big Ten environment 

Although still early in his collegiate journey, fans and analysts alike see a high ceiling for this young running back based on athleticism and early performance.

8. Comparisons to Legendary Bo Jackson: Similarities & Differences

With two athletes sharing a name and position, comparisons are inevitable. But it’s crucial to see both the similarities and differences.

Similarities

• Both excelled as running backs

• Both showed multi-sport talent

• Both have a dynamic, powerful running style

Differences

• Not biologically related

• One is a freshman in college; the other is a multi-sport professional Hall of Famer 

This places Ohio State’s Bo Jackson in a position to carve his own legacy — without being overshadowed by past accomplishments.

9. What Makes Ohio State’s Bo Jackson Special?

What sets this young athlete apart isn’t just his name — it’s his work ethic, athletic versatility, and early on-field contributions.

He brings:

• Speed and power

• Football intelligence

• Potential to be one of the most exciting running backs at the collegiate level

These attributes have made him a fan favorite and a player to watch as his career progresses.

FAQs

Q1: Is Ohio State’s Bo Jackson related to the MLB/NFL legend Bo Jackson?
A: No, despite sharing a name, Ohio State’s Bo Jackson is not related to the legendary two-sport athlete. His birth name is Lamar Jackson Jr., and the nickname “Bo” was given to him early in life. 

Q2: How old is Ohio State’s Bo Jackson?
A: As a college freshman in 2025, he is estimated to be around 18–19 years old. 

Q3: Where is Bo Jackson from?
A: He is from Cleveland, Ohio, where he attended Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School. 

Q4: Why is he called “Bo” if that’s not his name?
A: “Bo” is a nickname inspired by the legendary Bo Jackson, reflecting his multi-sport talent and given to him early in life. 

Q5: Did he receive offers from other major colleges?
A: Yes — before committing to Ohio State, he had offers from top programs like Alabama and Georgia. 

Conclusion: A Fresh Star with a Legendary Name

Ohio State’s Bo Jackson may share his name with one of sports’ greatest athletes, but he’s building his own unique story — one rooted in a rich Ohio heritage, impressive high school legacy, and emerging college career. As he continues to develop with the Buckeyes, his impact could grow into something memorable and exciting for Buckeye fans everywhere.