The New England Patriots’ offseason will hinge on two related decisions: how can they clear cap space by either extending players or slicing them off the roster, and how can they use that additional space to take care of lockdown cornerback JC Jackson?
As much as Pats Nation might not want to hear it, though, because of the uncertainty it creates in the short-term … reading the Patriots history books is not encouraging regarding Jackson’s long-term fate in Foxborough.
Could the Patriots theoretically use the tag on him? Sure. But, if so, it’ll take quite a while for that to get settled, and is probably at the bottom of Bill Belichick’s wishlist.
So, long-term deal or long walk away it is, and Jackson’s recent comments indicate he’s less than pleased with the silence coming from the Patriots’ side.
Of course … that’s just how it works here. If you “demand respect” in negotiations with Belichick while he sits on his thumbs, knowing full well he can replace you in one or two years, you’re probably going to be sent away a “year too early,” in Pats parlance.
This whole detente makes Jonathan Jones‘ choice of Zac Brown Band lyrics, posted Thursday morning, feel especially appropriate.
Ain’t no dolla sign on peace of mind…
— J Jones (@justjjones) February 24, 2022
Did Patriots DB Jonathan Jones send a hint to JC Jackson, or the media?
Now, this could’ve been one of three things:
- Directed towards Jackson, reminding him to seek peace rather than the almighty dollar. But is that peace in New England, or elsewhere?
- Directed towards the media, reminding them that comfort could come over contract speculation.
- Absolutely Nothing
Unfortunately, we likely won’t find out whether this relationship is maintained in the New England secondary for several weeks.
Jackson is at the top of the cornerback market, and though it seemed like the Stephon Gilmore trade was all about New England committing to his future, we’re once again wading through an early-offseason reminder that this whole puzzle works on Belichick’s watch.
It happened to Hall of Famer Richard Seymour. It could happen to anyone.
If Jackson likes cold beer on a Friday night and a pair of jeans that fit just right, maybe he’ll remain in New England.
But if his tastes are more extravagant, this could be the end.
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