Chargers’ cornerback J.C. Jackson was non-committal on whether he would play in the regular season opener after he was asked for a projection. When asked if he’d “project himself to be out there Week 1,” Jackson said this:
I don’t want to put a projection on myself at this time. Like I said, I’m working each and everyday to be ready. Week 1 or Week 3, whatever week it is, I’m going to be ready mentally and physically.
Jackson sat out a few practices over a week ago with “knee soreness” as he continues his recovery from patellar tendon surgery. The former Pro Bowler also expanded on his condition and how he’s feeling:
I’m working each and every day. There are going to be some good days and some bad days, but I just have to keep working, keep going.
On building up strength in his knee, Jackson expanded on the challenge and his mentality:
It’s just work. It’s nothing bigger than a challenge to me. I look at it as just work, becoming who I need to become, coming out here each and every day, being a good teammate, and working my ass off.
Time will tell if the former Pro Bowl corner does play against Miami in Week 1, but his progress to this point is still an incredible achievement. Considering that his knee injury occurred at the end of last October, a turnaround of “Week 1” or “Week 3” would still be quite the feat.