New England Patriots cornerback J. C. Jackson is expected to hit the free agent market, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The Patriots are not expected to place the franchise tag on their star cornerback.
If the Patriots had placed the franchise tag on Jackson, they would have owed him roughly $17 million for 2022. The team has just $9 million in cap space for next season, per Over The Cap.
Jackson recorded eight interceptions for the Patriots last season. That total was down from 2020 when he recorded nine. Nevertheless, he was a vital part of the Patriots secondary, putting together a year that would lead to his first Pro Bowl appearance. Jackson has 25 interceptions in four seasons in the NFL after joining the team as an undrafted free agent. He has quickly established himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.
Jackson is seeking a contract comparable to what Jalen Ramsey (five years, $100 million) makes, according to NFL Network’s Mike Giardi.
From NFL Now: #Patriots CB JC Jackson is expected to hit the free agent market, rather than receive the franchise tag. One of the top CBs will generate significant interest. pic.twitter.com/i3PE7GGGNE
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 4, 2022
With Jackson hitting the market, New England will now have another hole to fill, in what is expected to be a busy offseason for the Patriots organization.
