Chargers CB J.C. Jackson looking forward to ‘revenge game’ vs. Patriots

Chargers CB J.C. Jackson has one game this upcoming season circled on his calendar.

Chargers cornerback J.C. Jackson has one game he anticipates the most this upcoming season.

Jackson has the matchup with the Patriots in Week 13 circled on his calendar. This will mark the first time he faces his former team since he departed in free agency last year.

“It’s a revenge game for me,” Jackson said. “I’m excited to go back and pick Mac Jones off and show them why they should’ve never let me go.”

Despite not returning to New England, Jackson ended up signing a five-year contract worth up to $82.5 million with L.A.

Jackson’s first season with the Bolts wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows as he struggled to find his footing in Brandon Staley’s defense, leading to getting benched. However, once he did start to acclimate to the system, Jackson suffered a season-ending patellar tendon injury.

Since then, Jackson has steadily been working his way back to full health. Recently, he said the goal is to be 100% when the season gets here.

“My No. 1 goal for next year is to have a healthy season,” Jackson said. “To remain healthy this season, that’s my goal. I’m just excited to be out there and compete with the team.”

If he can get back to live-game shape and play like the All-Pro corner he once was, Jackson could really boost the Chargers’ defense and cause problems for his former team.

Report: Chargers CB J.C. Jackson not expected to play Week 1 vs. Raiders

The Chargers will be without their star corner in Week 1, potentially next Thursday night vs. the Chiefs.

The Chargers will be without their key offseason addition when they open up the 2022 regular season against the Raiders this Sunday.

According to NFL Media’s Taylor Biscotti, cornerback J.C. Jackson is not expected to play in Week 1.

Jackson is currently in a walking boot and did not practice on Monday.

Jackson had ankle surgery on Aug. 23, and at the time, head coach Brandon Staley said that he would be sidelined for two-to-four weeks while he was recovering.

Jackson hasn’t been ruled out of Los Angeles’ matchup with the Chiefs next Thursday night. But given how quick of a turnaround it is from Sunday, it wouldn’t be surprising if he couldn’t play.

While Jackson is sidelined, Michael Davis and Asante Samuel Jr. will start on the outside while Bryce Callahan plays in the slot.

Update: On Wednesday, Staley said Jackson is out of the walking boot and is now day-to-day.