An undrafted rookie. That’s what J.C. Jackson was. But today, he’s making big-time contributions at a time when New England needs players to step up.
J.C. Jackson is quietly delivering All-Pro numbers. In three NFL seasons, Jackson has 15 interceptions, 28 pass defenses, has conceded only three touchdowns in 42 games, and (when challenged) has allowed just 6.3 yards per attempt.
But only now is Jackson getting the credit he richly deserves. For his first two seasons in New England, Jackson was overshadowed by reigning DPOY Stephon Gilmore and two-time Pro Bowler Devin McCourty. But not this year. The primary reason is interceptions–he has seven in 2020 (second in the league).
Undersized at 5’9”, Jackson overcomes lack of stature with an exceptional football IQ. With anticipation and coverage skills, Jackson plays like an NFL veteran. To complement mental acumen, Jackson also has elite physical traits, including speed, agility, and acceleration.
Jackson is especially adept at taking advantage of off-target throws. For example, against Miami (Week 1), Jackson intercepted Ryan Fitzpatrick. Nothing special, heh? Not so! It was a spectacular play because Jackson was covering WR Jakeem Grant, not the TE, for whom the pass was intended. Jackson sniffed out the play by observing Fitzpatrick’s head.
And what’s amazing about Gilmore’s performance is that he’s often asked to cover the opposition’s primary receiver, including the likes of DK Metcalf, Tyreek Hill, and Keenan Allen. Despite being targeted frequently, Jackson delivers. And he’s doing that during a season when the Patriots’ defense has been on the field a lot. That’s because New England no longer has a Tom Brady-led, ball-control offense. Instead, the Patriots’ offense regularly coughs up the ball (Cam Newton has been intercepted 13 times this season).
After last Thursday’s loss to the LA Rams, playoff hopes are fading for the 6-7 Patriots. Yes, it has been a disappointing year in New England, but ‘disappointing’ isn’t a word that applies to Jackson’s play.
“From undrafted to elite NFL player….” That’s the storyline for J.C. Jackson, and it’s an incredible storyline, indeed.
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Kudos to friend Elias Saykouk for suggesting that I write about Jackson.
