Former Patriots standout J.C. Jackson is still looking for a job. Friday’s NFL decision won’t help his cause.
Jackson, who New England cut loose on March 1, has been suspended by the NFL for one game under the league’s personal conduct policy stemming from missing a probation violation hearing related to a criminal speeding charge in 2021.
Originally charged with criminal speeding in 2021, Jackson didn’t abide by the terms of his probation. He didn’t complete the “Brains At Risk” program he was ordered to take, nor did he pay a $300 fine. After failing to appear in court, the warrant was issued. The issue was resolved in October.
An undrafted free agent in 2018, Jackson spent four years in the Patriots secondary where he intercepted 25 passes. He cashed in with a five-year, $82.5 million contract with the Chargers in 2022, but was a bad fit from the outset. Injuries cost him much of 2022 and he was benched in Los Angeles early in 2023.
He was traded back to the Patriots, where he showed signs of his former self appearing in eight games. But he was benched in November and then missed the last four games dealing with personal issues.
Jackson is still just 28. He was eligible to sign and be a full participant in preseason activities and exhibition games, but remained a free agent. He’ll serve his penalty during Week 1 even if he is still unsigned.
