For the first time since he was cut by the team in 2020, New York Giants cornerback Adoree’ Jackson will be returning to face his old mates, the Tennessee Titans, in Nashville in Week 1 of the 2022 season.
A former first-round pick of the Titans in 2017, Jackson showed plenty of promise early on in his career.
However, he was plagued by injury and inconsistency in his final two years with the team, leading to Tennessee cutting him despite picking up his fifth-year option in what was a surprising move.
Even though things didn’t work out the way Jackson wanted with his old team, the 26-year-old has no ill-will towards the Titans. He’s also excited to reunite with some of the guys he played with during his time in Nashville.
“That’s the organization that drafted me, so I’m forever thankful and grateful for the opportunity that they gave me,” Jackson said. “At the end of the day, it just didn’t pan out the way they wanted, and I wanted. That’s how life goes.”
“It’s going to be cool. I get to see a couple of my guys,” Jackson continued. “Kevin Byard, Amani Hooker, Derrick Henry, and Robert Woods. That’s what I’m most excited about, seeing some familiar faces. A couple of the coaches that I know, built some relationships with. It’s just going to be fun seeing them, chopping it up with them. Probably get a jersey after the game or two so that’s going to be nice.”
The USC product, who signed a three-year, $39 million deal with the Giants in 2021, had an impressive first season in The Big Apple, notching one pick, eight passes defensed and allowing a completion rate and QB rating of 52.1 percent and 69.0, respectively, on passes thrown his way.
After the Giants released cornerback James Bradberry this offseason, Jackson easily secured the No. 1 cornerback role with a great showing in training camp.
And, Jackson has also rediscovered his love of football.
“I feel like I had the most fun that I’ve had in a while. Just going back and playing football like I was playing Pop Warner,” Jackson told reporters. “I will say it made me feel like a kid again being out there playing, running around with the guys. Just doing what I love to do.”
The USC product, who has one more year left on his contract in 2023, will look to build upon was what an impressive first season in New York, but the spotlight figures to be a bit brighter this time around with his role as the team’s top corner.
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