Randall Gay. Malcolm Butler. Jonathan Jones. And now, J.C. Jackson. The list of rookie free agent cornerbacks making a significant impact on the New England Patriots’ defense is a long one, and Jackson the latest member of the group to develop from draft day afterthought to legitimate starting-caliber defender.
Following an impressive performance during his first training camp and preseason as a Patriot in 2018, the Maryland product went on to not just make the team’s 53-man roster but to carve out a regular role as an outside cornerback.