The New England Patriots appear willing to let cornerback J.C. Jackson hit the market. Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots Pro Bowl CB J.C. Jackson expected to become free agent

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 3/4/22

After breaking out in his third NFL season in 2020, New England Patriots cornerback J.C. Jackson one-upped himself in 2021. Now, there's reportedly a strong possibility that he's played his last game in a Patriots uniform.

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

Jackson signed as an undrafted free agent with New England in 2018 and was a role player on the Super Bowl-winning squad against the Los Angeles Rams. Jackson finished his rookie season with 24 tackles, six passes defended and three interceptions in 13 regular-season games, while adding seven tackles in the playoffs.

The Maryland product's numbers increased to 36 tackles, 10 passes defended and five interceptions across 16 games in 2019, and he solidified himself as an integral part of the Patriots' secondary in 2020. That season, he played 16 games (making 11 starts) and recorded 40 tackles, 14 passes defended, a career-high nine interceptions and three fumble recoveries.

The 26-year-old got even better in 2021, registering career-bests in tackles (58) and passes defended (an NFL-high 23), while posting eight interceptions, which was second in the league behind Trevon Diggs of the Dallas Cowboys.

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