Chargers signing J.C. Jackson to reported 5-year, $82.5M deal

The Los Angeles Chargers aren't done adding to their defense.

Los Angeles is signing star cornerback J.C. Jackson to a five-year, $82.5-million deal that includes $40 million guaranteed, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Jackson was one of the top free agents available this offseason after leading the NFL with 23 pass breakups in 2021. The 26-year-old signed with the New England Patriots in 2018 after going undrafted. He earned his first career Pro Bowl nod last year and recorded at least eight interceptions for the second straight campaign.

He also allowed a 46.8 passer rating in 2021 despite being targeted 106 times.

Led by Justin Herbert, the Chargers had one of the NFL's best offenses last season. However, the defense wasn't on the same page, ranking 29th in points and 23rd in yards allowed.

Jackson is the second big addition to L.A.'s defense this offseason. Linebacker Khalil Mack is reportedly set to join the team via a trade from the Chicago Bears.

Los Angeles' secondary lacked consistency in 2021 and saw rookie Asante Samuel Jr. and Michael Davis - the club's top two corners - miss games due to injuries.

"Love L.A. Love Cali," Jackson said Monday, according to Phil Perry of NBCS Boston. "Not only that, the defense, I think I can add some value to that defense. That's a stacked group, and imagine me (there) ... It's going to be scary."

Los Angeles also bolstered its defensive line Monday, signing former Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day to a three-year, $24-million contract, a source told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Chargers star safety Derwin James reacted to Jackson's arrival on social media: