Robert Jackson is the answer to what might someday be an NFL trivia question. Jackson is the first-ever practice squad player promoted to the active roster under the new CBA rules.
Jackson, a third-year cornerback, is on the Browns practice squad. But due to injuries at the position, the Browns have taken advantage of the new rule wrinkle to promote Jackson to the active roster for a game weekend. It’s part of the change allowing 55 active players for each game day, up from 53. The teams can elevate one or two players from its practice squad before 4 p.m. ET the day before a game.
Jackson will revert back to the practice squad following the game. The Browns need him to help fill in for inured Greedy Williams, Kevin Johnson and M.J. Stewart at cornerback. Williams and Johnson have been ruled out for the Week 1 trip to Baltimore, while Stewart is questionable.
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Jackson was the first player officially designated with the new practice squad elevation around the league. He played in six games for the Browns a year ago, almost exclusively on special teams.