The New England Patriots 2021 season was mostly a success. They won 10 games and got back into the playoffs. Much of that had to do with the defense and in particular, the play of cornerback J.C. Jackson. Jackson is slated to become an unrestricted free agent. There were talks the Patriots might place the franchise tag on him to keep him in New England. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported the Patriots are not expected to place the franchise tag on Jackson.

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That would mean that Jackson's services will be up to the highest bidder. Knowing the way Belichick, Robert Kraft and the Patriots do business, that likely will not be in New England.

Jackson is coming off the best year of his career. He earned his first All-Pro honor, being named to the second team. Jackson also was named to the AFC Pro Bowl after registering eight interceptions and 58 tackles. He was one of the best shutdown cornerbacks in the NFL this past season and helped transform the Patriots defense into one of the best units in the league.

It appears Jackson will join a deep free agent class at cornerback. Former Patriots DB Stephon Gilmore, Patrick Peterson, Chris Harris and Joe Haden are also set to become free agents later this month.