THE New England Patriots have cut cornerback J.C. Jackson, ending his short-lived reunion with the team.

The Patriots traded for the one-time Pro Bowler during the 2023 NFL season.

The New England Patriots have released cornerback J.C. JacksonCredit: Getty
Having lost rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez to a season-ending shoulder injury in October, New England brought Jackson, 28, back two years after he left for the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency.

But the Florida native – who’s earned $45.7 million in the NFL – is now looking for another job as the Patriots released him on Friday.

The veteran corner made eight appearances for the Pats during his second stint, starting in six of them.

He registered 25 tackles and six passes defended.

Jackson started his career in New England, signing with the team as an undrafted free agent in 2018.

During his rookie season, he helped the Patriots win Super Bowl LIII.

His release saved about $14 million in salary cap space for New England.

The Patriots now have over $100 million in cap space, the most in the NFL per Over the Cap.

The franchise also owns the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, giving head coach Jerod Mayo plenty of assets as he’s set to usher in the post-Bill Belichick era in Foxboro.

The Pats parted ways with Belichick, who was in charge of the team for 27 years, after finishing the 2023 campaign with a 4-13 record.

It’s still not clear what New England will do during this year’s draft, though, which is rich in quarterback talent.

Meanwhile, the Patriots are in desperate need to find a starting QB this offseason.

 

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However, the Minnesota Vikings reportedly approached the Patriots over a potential trade for their No. 3 pick recently.

Around the same time, reports emerged claiming New England is said to have shown interest in signing veteran passer Joe Flacco after his stunning career comeback last season.