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Kam Sallis explains staying at Jackson State despite Power Four interest
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- Kam Sallis explains staying at Jackson State despite Power Four interest
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Jackson State defensive back Kam Sallis briefly explored opportunities elsewhere this offseason, but ultimately decided the best place for him was right where he was. A month after entering the transfer portal, the standout defender withdrew his name and returned to the Tigers, a decision that has since become one of Jackson State's biggest offseason victories.
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Speaking with the Clarion-Ledger during SWAC Media Day on Wednesday, Sallis reflected on being named the SWAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year and what the recognition means entering the 2026 season.
"It means a lot to be recognized by the SWAC," Sallis told the Clarion Ledger. "It's great competition out here with those guys, but going into a season like this, obviously, I had personal goals, and that was one of the top goals I had for myself."
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Sallis initially entered the transfer portal in December following the conclusion of the 2025 season. After drawing interest from multiple Power Four programs, according to his representation at Jordan Sports Group, he ultimately chose to remain at Jackson State.
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For Sallis, the decision extended beyond football.
"That's what did it for me, being at home around my family," Sallis said. "My grandad not being able to see me at Kansas State, so staying at Jackson State, he'll be able to see me at games and stuff like that, so that meant a lot to me."
Before arriving in Jackson, Sallis began his collegiate career at Kansas State before transferring to Jackson State, where he quickly developed into one of the anchors of the Tigers' defense. During the 2025 season, Sallis recorded 53 total tackles while adding two interceptions and two forced fumbles, helping lead one of the top defensive units in HBCU football.
His production earned him preseason recognition as the conference's top defensive player and helped position Jackson State among the favorites to compete for another SWAC championship. The Tigers reached the SWAC Championship Game for a second consecutive season in 2025 before falling to Prairie View A&M.
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With Sallis opting to return despite opportunities at the Power Four level, Jackson State brings back one of the conference's premier defensive playmakers as it looks to reclaim the SWAC title and earn another trip to the Cricket Celebration Bowl.
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