Patriots’ release of CB J.C. Jackson gives them resources to strengthen roster with over $100 million in salary-cap space

Between 2001 and 2019, the New England Patriots experienced an unparalleled period of achievement, securing victory in six Super Bowls. Nevertheless, since Tom Brady’s departure, the team has begun to lose momentum, which at last even cost the job of Bill Belichick, who has been vying to outrun Don Shula. 

Under the new head coach, Jerod Mayo, the team is leaning heavily toward a shift in losing culture in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, to materialize it, the NY team reportedly decided to move forward without their vet cornerback J.C. Jackson.

Patriots release CB J.C. Jackson to clear $14 million cap space

The New England Patriots sent shockwaves through the NFL offseason by dropping veteran cornerback J.C. Jackson. This move frees up a hefty $14 million in salary cap space, with no dead money attached, giving the Patriots’ front office significant financial flexibility. This strategic maneuver, coupled with their already impressive $87 million war chest, allows the Patriots to potentially embark on a full-fledged rebuild.

After failing to replicate his initial success with the Patriots, his departure was no shocker. He established himself as an undrafted gem in New England, but his stock dropped sharply after signing a hefty five-year, $82.5 million deal with the Chargers in 2022. His impact was minimal in Los Angeles, grabbing just one interception in two contests. This lackluster performance ultimately led to his exit from the Chargers.

The Pats brought Jackson back for a second tour of duty in Foxborough after acquiring him from the Chargers in October. However, his homecoming wasn’t the storybook return everyone envisioned. Despite getting six starts, Jackson couldn’t recapture his former magic, failing to snag a single interception in his eight appearances. This stat line paints a stark picture of his diminished playmaking ability.

Though the recent setbacks brought nightmares for him, he boasts an impressive career record, tallying 26 interceptions over 77 NFL games, with 52 starts, per the Sain Pan Tribune.

Patriots look beyond Kirk Cousins to pursue another NFL QB

The Patriots are making waves in the NFL offseason as they explore their options for the quarterback position. Despite being ranked as the No. 2 favorite to sign Kirk Cousins according to Bookies.com, the Patriots are reportedly looking beyond the Minnesota Vikings quarterback. Instead, their main focus appears to be on selecting a quarterback with the No. 3 pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft.

The New England Patriots are making a splash in the NFL offseason as they explore their options for the quarterback position. While labeled the second-most likely team to land Kirk Cousins by Bookies.com, reports suggest the Patriots are looking past the veteran signal-caller from the Minnesota Vikings. Instead, their sights seem firmly set on drafting their future franchise quarterback with the coveted number three pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft.

According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, there is a palpable sense within the Patriots organization that they are heavily leaning towards drafting a quarterback early in the draft. This strategy suggests a commitment to securing a long-term solution at the quarterback position, rather than relying solely on free agency or trades.

With veteran signal-caller Kirk Cousins testing the free-agent waters, the New England Patriots appear to be setting their sights elsewhere in their quest to solidify their quarterback situation. Reports indicate the Pats have also shown interest in Baker Mayfield, who is widely expected to hit the open market this offseason.

Additionally, there are indications that Mac Jones, who started for the Patriots in the previous season, may be traded at some point during the offseason.

It will remain to be seen how the Patriots team addresses their offensive issues through cryptic decisions regarding their QB choice.