Patriots' Jackson willing to play on franchise tag

New England Patriots cornerback J.C. Jackson says he's open to playing the 2022 season on the franchise tag.

"I love the game," Jackson told NBC Sports Boston's Phil Perry on Tuesday. "If they tag me, I'm gonna go out there and play."

NFL teams have until March 8 to apply a franchise or transition tag. Tuesday marked the first day teams could place the tag on players. Cornerbacks are projected to command $17.5 million under the designation next season, according to Spotrac.

However, Jackson, an impending free agent, said his desire is to land a new four- or five-year contract.

While the 2021 Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro acknowledged that the Patriots approached him about a contract extension during the 2021 season, he said New England hasn't reached out since the end of the campaign.

"I guess I can't be that important to them," Jackson said. "I know I am, but they're not showing me."

But regardless of where he lands, Jackson, who made $3.38 million last year, is focused on getting a big payday.

"Whatever happens, happens," he said. "I'm taking it day by day. But it's time for me to get paid. It's time to get Mr. INT paid."

Jackson has 25 interceptions since he joined New England as an undrafted free agent in 2018.