Patriots Release J.C. Jackson, Free Up Significant Cap Space

The New England Patriots have released cornerback J.C. Jackson, creating approximately $100 million in cap space as they prepare for a rebuild.

J.C. Jackson was released by the New England Patriots, freeing up about $100 million in cap space.
Jackson was acquired from the Los Angeles Chargers in October after a season-ending injury to rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez.
Jackson's base salaries for 2024, 2025, and 2026 were in the $12 million range, making his release a financial decision.
In his time with the Patriots, Jackson played in nine games, starting six, and ended the year on the reserve/non-football injury list due to mental health issues.
Jackson had previously been a Pro Bowl player in 2021, leading the NFL with 23 passes defended that year.