Childhood and Education Journey of Bo Jackson in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 23, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Bo Jackson. From birth to education, explore key events.

Bo Jackson is a former professional baseball and football player, uniquely distinguished as the only athlete named an All-Star in both MLB and NFL. His success in multiple sports has cemented his reputation as one of the greatest all-around athletes of all time.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

November 30, 1962: Bo Jackson Born

On November 30, 1962, Vincent Edward "Bo" Jackson was born. He would later become a celebrated athlete in both baseball and football.

Others born on this day/year

June 1982: Drafted by the New York Yankees

In June 1982, Bo Jackson was drafted by the New York Yankees in the second round of the MLB draft. He chose to attend Auburn University instead, honoring a promise to his mother.

1985: Heisman Trophy Winner

In 1985, Bo Jackson won the Heisman Trophy while playing college football for the Auburn Tigers.

1986: Birth of son, Garrett

In 1986, Bo Jackson's first son, Garrett, was born.

1987: Married Linda Garrett

In 1987, Bo Jackson married Linda (née Garrett), a rehabilitation counselor whom he met at Auburn.

1988: Birth of son, Nicholas

In 1988, Bo Jackson's second son, Nicholas, was born.

1989: Birth of daughter, Morgan

In 1989, Bo Jackson's daughter, Morgan, was born.

1991: Hip Injury Ends Football Career

In 1991, a hip injury forced Bo Jackson to end his football career. The injury also impacted his baseball career.

1992: Missed MLB Season Due to Injury

Due to the hip injury sustained in 1991, Bo Jackson missed the entire 1992 MLB season.

1993: Hit a home run after surgery

In 1993, after hip replacement surgery and the passing of his mother, Bo Jackson hit a home run in his first at-bat. He traded an autographed bat for the ball, planning to bronze it for her dresser.

1994: Retirement After Strike-Shortened Season

In 1994, Bo Jackson retired from professional baseball after the strike-shortened season.

1995: Completed bachelor's degree

In 1995, Bo Jackson fulfilled a promise to his mother by completing his Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Child Development at Auburn University.

2005: Threw ceremonial first pitch

In 2005, Bo Jackson threw the ceremonial first pitch before Game 2 of the World Series for the Chicago White Sox, who went on to win the game and the series.

2007: Part-owner and CEO of Elite Sports Complex

In 2007, Bo Jackson became part-owner and CEO of the Bo Jackson Elite Sports Complex, a multi-sport facility in Lockport, Illinois.

May 9, 2009: Delivered Commencement Speech

On May 9, 2009, Bo Jackson delivered the commencement speech at Auburn University's graduation ceremony, focusing on the benefits of stepping out of one's comfort zone.

July 12, 2010: Participated in Home Run Derby

On July 12, 2010, Bo Jackson threw the ceremonial first pitch before the 2010 Home Run Derby at Angel Stadium and participated in the celebrity softball game.