Report: Patriots not expected to franchise tag Jackson

The New England Patriots are not expected to use the franchise tag on cornerback J.C. Jackson, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

Without a franchise tag in place, Jackson would test the free-agent market, Rapoport adds.

Jackson said last month he was hoping to land a long-term contract but would be open to playing on the franchise tag. However, he revealed that the Patriots haven't reached out to him in regards to a contract since the end of the 2021 season.

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

The 26-year-old has developed into one of the league's best ballhawks since joining the Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He's notched at least three interceptions in each of his four seasons, with a league-high 17 since 2020.

Jackson earned his first Pro Bowl invitation in 2021 after recording eight picks and 23 passes defended.