J.C. Jackson traded to Patriots, ending tenure with Chargers

J.C. Jackson is returning to the New England Patriots after a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers. Jackson's time with the Chargers was marked by struggles and legal issues.

J.C. Jackson, a veteran cornerback, is set to make a comeback in New England after the Chargers and Patriots reached a trade agreement on Wednesday morning. The Chargers traded Jackson and a 2025 seventh-round pick to the Patriots in exchange for a 2025 sixth-rounder. Jackson's time with the Chargers was plagued by injury, inconsistent performance, and legal issues off the field.

Jackson joined the Chargers in March 2022 as a free agent, signing a lucrative five-year contract worth up to $82.5 million, with $40 million guaranteed. Initially, his addition was seen as a significant move for the team. However, Jackson struggled to fit in with the Chargers and their defensive scheme under head coach Brandon Staley. His problems began when he missed the start of last season due to a foot injury.

Although Jackson made his debut for the Chargers the following week against Kansas City, he missed the subsequent game before returning to the starting lineup. His struggles continued, leading to his benching, and he ultimately suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 7 against Seattle.

Jackson returned for the start of training camp in late July and started the first two games of this season. However, he was inactive for Week 3 against Minnesota and did not play against Las Vegas and Davante Adams on Sunday. These recent developments further highlighted Jackson's uncertain status with the Chargers.

In addition to his on-field struggles, Jackson faced legal issues related to a family matter and a probation violation, both stemming from his time with the Patriots. Despite these challenges, Jackson's earlier years with the Patriots were highly successful, earning him a Pro Bowl selection in 2021. In his four seasons with the team, he recorded 25 interceptions in 62 games. During his brief stint with the Chargers, he managed to intercept one pass and make 18 tackles in seven games.

With Jackson's departure, Michael Davis and Asante Samuel Jr. will continue to start as outside cornerbacks for the Chargers, while Ja'Sir Taylor will start on the inside. The Chargers will have a bye week before returning to face the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium on October 16th.