Over the last decade, the Pittsburgh Steelers have struggled mightily at drafting the cornerback position. Most notably Artie Burns and Senquez Golson who were extremely disappointing selections. Golson never played a regular season down for the Steelers after being drafted in the second round. Most recently, losing Mike Hilton to free agency during the 2020 offseason left the Steelers with quite a bit of uncertainty heading into last season.
We saw this hole in the defense throughout the season with the Steelers being 24th in the NFL in points allowed and passing yards allowed, and 25th in passing touchdowns allowed. But nothing stands out more to Steelers fans then watching Patrick Mahomes throw for over 400 yards and 5 touchdowns against them during the AFC Wild Card game. So, who is one cornerback that the Steelers can go after during the offseason in order to help lock up this secondary?
The answer is J.C Jackson.
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According to reports this week, it seems to appear that the New England Patriots are letting star corner J.C Jackson test the waters in free agency. Jackson with 8 interceptions, led the team last year and was second in the NFL. With Jackson being only 26 years old, the Steelers could sign him long-term and give him an opportunity to play along side Minkah Fitzpatrick for years to come. The Steelers could also use Day 2 of the draft to add to the secondary and give Jackson some help on the other side of the defense. If these moves are made, the Steelers defense could look a lot better come the 2022 season.
"I guess they feel like they don't need me," Jackson said. "I guess I can't be that important to them. I know I am, but they're not showing me."
With the recent hiring of coach Brian Flores, it gives the Steelers an obvious connection. Flores was the Patriots linebacker coach in 2018 when Jackson came into the league. While Flores wasn't his position coach, the two surely are familiar with each other.
“I love the game,” Jackson said in the interview. “If they tag me, I’m going to go out there and play. … Whatever happens, happens. I’m taking it day by day. But it’s time for me to get paid. It’s time to get Mr. INT paid.”
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The Patriots could go the franchise tag route like they did last year with Stephon Gilmore. Jackson at least admits he would play on the tag, which is always an interesting decision. Steelers fans know how painful dealing with a player on the franchise tag can be.
Pro Football Focus predicts Jackson will command a 4-year, $77 million dollar contract. If the Steelers would come close to that figure with Jackson, it would be the largest free agent contract ever given by the team, and by a LARGE margin.
What are your thoughts on J.C Jackson, Steeler Nation? Leave a comment in the comment section below!
