The New England Patriots are not expected to use the franchise tag on cornerback J.C. Jackson, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:
Ian RapoportFrom NFL Now: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Patriots?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Patriots</a> CB JC Jackson is expected to hit the free agent market, rather than receive the franchise tag. One of the top CBs will generate significant interest. <a href="https://t.co/i3PE7GGGNE">pic.twitter.com/i3PE7GGGNE</a>
The decision will allow Jackson to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
The 26-year-old was named second-team All-Pro in 2021 and earned his first Pro Bowl selection after totaling eight interceptions and a league-high 23 passes defended.