NFL franchise New England Patriots and their fans might be on the verge of losing one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks, JC Jackson. The Patriots organization has decided against making Jackson their franchise player and it might be the signal of his departure. The move means Jackson becomes a premier target for any contender franchise during the 2022 NFL free agency.

The news comes from NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, who reported on the franchise and their desire to not franchise tag Jackson. The upcoming free agency market will offer players like Jackson almost $17 million in 2022.

He is considered one of the best ballhawks in the NFL. He could be a valuable addition to any team looking to level up defensively.

The 26-year-old plays the CB position, which is one of the most sought-after positions in the modern era of the NFL. During his last four seasons, Jackson has recorded 25 interceptions and is also tied for most interceptions in the first four seasons of any player since 1970. He possibly could become the highest-paid cornerback in the league and surpass Rams CB Jalen Ramsey’s $20 million per season contract.

Are the Patriots making the right choice to let JC Jackson leave?

The 2021 Pro Bowl selection seems to be on his way out because of the lack of cap space to retain him. The Patriots seem to be just over $7.3 million in cap space, and franchise tagging Jackson would cost them $17 million. It might be a hefty price to pay for a quality player they signed on a 1-year $3.38 million deal as an undrafted prospect in April.

Read More: Patriots’ Pro Bowl CB JC Jackson Warrants ‘Jalen Ramsey Money’ As Free Agency Approaches; NFL Analyst Sparks Debate

Even JC wanted to continue with the team but reportedly wasn’t reached out by the franchise about a new deal. But it seems even his willingness to play with a franchise tag wasn’t enough. The decision did evoke different reactions from fans on Twitter.

Some fans consider it to be an unacceptable move from the franchise, while many see it as a golden opportunity for other franchises. There seems to be an understanding of why they are moving on from Jackson within the fanbase.

The decision to let Jackson walk away for absolutely nothing might be a very risky move by the Patriots organization. The defensive presence that JC brought to the team would be a big absence. Coach Belichick will be looking to repeat his trick of making unknown players into superstars. It seems that Patriots are exploring ways to get back to their glory years. The Patriots fans will be hoping for incomings that benefit them in the long run.

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