Bo Jackson, one of the most extraordinary multi-sport athletes in history, showcased unparalleled talent in both football and baseball. Opting to attend Auburn University on a football scholarship despite being drafted by the New York Yankees in 1982, Bo excelled in both sports. He racked up 4,575 all-purpose yards, 28 touchdowns, and an SEC-record 6.6 yards per carry. His collegiate success included MVP honors in the Sugar Bowl and Liberty Bowl, as well as the 1985 Heisman Trophy.

In baseball, Bo batted .401 with 17 home runs and 43 RBIs in 1985 at Auburn and was later drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1986 NFL Draft. Instead, he pursued professional baseball with the Kansas City Royals, where he quickly made an impact, earning All-Star MVP honors in 1989.

Bo’s unique athleticism allowed him to play for the NFL’s Oakland Raiders while continuing his MLB career. Notably, during a 1987 Monday Night Football game, he rushed for over 200 yards, cementing his legendary status with a highlight-reel run against linebacker Brian Bosworth.

Though a hip injury curtailed his football career, Bo returned to baseball, hitting a memorable home run in his first at-bat with the Chicago White Sox in 1993. Nike famously celebrated his return with the iconic “Bo Knew” campaign. After a final season with the California Angels in 1994, Bo retired during the MLB strike.

Today, Bo Jackson’s legacy endures as one of the greatest dual-sport athletes. He resides with his family in Burr Ridge, Illinois.