One week after J.C. Jackson was a healthy scratch against the Vikings, it doesn’t seem as though his path toward returning to the field is any clearer. When asked about possibilities for his availability on Sunday, Brandon Staley kept it brief:
Buy Chargers TicketsBrandon Staley on J.C. Jackson's availability on Sunday: "All options are open."
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) September 27, 2023
Despite being healthy, Jackson’s outright absence from the Vikings’ game was unprecedented in his Chargers’ tenure. It certainly got fans and pundits talking about the massive five-year, $82.5 million contract he signed less than two years ago.
Asante Samuel Jr., Michael Davis, and Ja’Sir Taylor were the primary cornerback trio last week as the Chargers shortened their rotation. While the secondary performance was better than Week 1 or 2 by comparison, Los Angeles still allowed explosive plays in the back half at an alarming rate.
While the opposing quarterback they’ll be facing is an unknown variable for the Bolts, Davante Adams will be on the field come Sunday. Last year, Adams had 18 receptions for 318 yards and two touchdowns in his two games against the Chargers.
On Monday, Staley said that Jackson’s availability would be based on his cumulative work in practice and everything leading up to the game. The Chargers head coach seemed disappointed in Jackson’s work ethic based on the quote:
It will just be determined by what he does — preparation, practice, all of that cumulative stuff.
The inactive list prior to Sunday’s game will determine a lot for the Chargers’ defense going forward. We’ll see whether Staley continues to roll with the current cornerback trio or if Los Angeles’ premier cornerback signing can get back on the field.
