Well, it’s that time of the year again. Mandatory mini camps started Tuesday for the Patriots, and players are looking to prove themselves to try to secure a roster spot. One of the biggest surprises of OTAs and the mini camps thus far is an undrafted free agent, JC Jackson, starting opposite Gilmore.
Jackson’s College Career
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JC (Jerald Christopher) Jackson began his career at the University of Florida. However, an injury in the 2014 season opener knocked him out for the rest of the year. Eventually, the program dismissed him in 2015 after felony charges for which he was eventually acquitted. Jackson played at Riverside Community College before transferring to Maryland where he played two seasons. In that span, he amassed 80 tackles, four interceptions, and 12 pass breakups (NFL.com).
Jackson’s Game
- Very physical and aggressive. Impressive response and speed to the curl route shown below.
- Active and willing in the run game. Does a great job getting off the block and tackling/forcing the back out of bounds
- Excellent play recognition. Reads the quarterback well. Got off a route to break up to the pass to the receiver cutting to the outside.
- Mirrors routes well and has the speed to still disrupt the play even if he gets a little behind
However, Jackson gets a bit grabby with his hands which can lead to pass interference calls. He also has a problem with consistency. Nonetheless, JC Jackson is a name to keep an eye out in the future when training camp and preseason comes around.