USA TODAY Sports

Chargers News: J.C Jackson Role To Be Determined Going Forward

Originally posted on Los Angeles Chargers on SI
By Matt Levine | Last updated 9/26/23

For whatever reason, cornerback J.C. Jackson was listed as a healthy scratch before the Los Angeles Chargers game against the Minnesota Vikings. There was no real reason for it, and head coach Brandon Staley gave insight into his decision.

“Just a coach’s decision,” Staley explained later. “We felt like this was the right group for this game.”

^{Per The LA Times}

Jackson returned from injury this season and was expected to be a vital member of the Chargers secondary this year. But despite him being healthy, he didn’t get a chance to play Sunday.

HC Brandon Staley said the decision on CB J.C. Jackson was made because he felt this group of DBs gave the #Chargers their best chance to win today.
— Jeff Miller (@JeffMillerLAT) September 24, 2023

He wasn’t listed on the injury report for the game, and he could have helped out the team going up against one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, Justin Jefferson.

The Bolts allowed 367 passing yards against the Vikings, including 149 to Jefferson. Luckily, they won the game, but the surprise decision remains a mystery.

“He made it back for the start of training camp and returned to the starting lineup. However, with the Chargers’ pass defense particularly porous to start the season, Jackson found himself without a role against Minnesota.”

Per Jeff Miller of The LA Times

Jackson was the big money item for the Bolts two off-seasons ago but has yet to make a difference for the team. They signed him to a five-year deal worth $82.5 million after he spent multiple years as a difference-maker for the New England Patriots.

Asked if Jackson had a chance to work his way back into the rotation, Staley said that is to be determined. https://t.co/VcFsyUghip
— Jeff Miller (@JeffMillerLAT) September 24, 2023

Through limited snaps this season, Jackson has posted one interception and has a 72.0 passer rating. The Chargers secondary has been one of the worst in the league, but the thought is that the veteran in Jackson could help them.

The defense has been an issue for the Bolts, but this was still a strange decision by Staley. If the Bolts continue to struggle, they will need to figure something out, and they may as well let their cornerback play since they are paying him a lot of money going forward.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Chargers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: