Tarvaris Jackson: “I Feel Like I’m Working Hard”

Days after Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Pat Williams raised the question of whether quarterback Tarvaris Jackson is working hard enough to excel in the NFL, Jackson defended himself today, according to Rick Alonzo of the St. Paul Pioneer-Press. While Jackson said he feels like he’s doing everything necessary in terms of preparation and was caught off-guard by Williams’ comments, the quarterback acknowledged that perhaps he could do a bit more as he tries to fend off veteran Sage Rosenfels for the starting job. “I feel like I’m doing what I’ve got to do,” Jackson said. “I put the time in. Maybe I do have to put extra time in. I guess when you’re not doing as well, you’ve got to put the extra time in. “I feel like I’m working hard. I’ve always been a hard worker. I’m going to continue to do that. ... I’m just going to try to turn it up a notch, I guess, try to work a little bit harder so we won’t be having these conversations no more.” During a weekend interview on Sirius NFL Radio, Williams said he has counseled Jackson about the necessity of burning the midnight oil to prepare himself for competition. “I talk to Tarvaris all the time (and) tell him you have to put in the time,” Williams said. “This ain’t college no more. This is the NFL. You have to put in more time than you are used to putting in. “If you are putting in four hours, you have to put in eight. You have to put in more time than what he’s doing. I think if he puts the right time in, he will be a great quarterback in the league.” Veteran defensive end Ray Edwards was supportive of Jackson, reasoning that Williams was simply trying to motivate the young quarterback. Jackson threw nine touchdowns and two interceptions last season. Of course, Jackson could have the job taken out of his hands completely if Brett Favre ends his retirement and signs with the Vikings.