The Denver Broncos didn't sign veteran defensive back Kareem Jackson away from the Houston Texans for him to not be on the field. For now, though, the only thing certain about his debut season with Denver is that Jackson, who played both cornerback and safety for the Texans, will be an integral part of the team's defense going forward.
At a press conference on Thursday discussing the Broncos' recent offseason acquisitions, first-year coach Vic Fangio told reporters he's still unsure where Jackson will play next season, a question that evokes the rare versatility the ninth-year pro brings to the table.
“That’s yet to be determined,” he said of Jackson role in Denver's defense, per the team's website. “Once we get the team here and start working out — that’s one of his strong suits, he can play corner, safety, nickel — we’ll use him where we most need him or that best fits him.”
Fangio also mentioned that both he and general manager John Elway, as well as others on the Broncos' coaching staff and in the front office, targeted Jackson early as a free agent the team hoped to bring in.
Jackson, 30, has spent the entirety of his NFL playing career in Houston since being drafted 20th overall in 2010. He enjoyed one of his finest seasons in 2018, finishing with career-highs of 87 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 17 passes defensed, and two forced fumbles. He also had two interceptions.
Denver made sure Jackson's foray into free agency was short, agreeing to terms on a three-year, $33 million with the University of Alabama product mere hours after the legal tampering period began earlier this week.
Follow Us
Subscribe