New England Patriots cornerback J.C. Jackson was mysteriously absent from Sunday’s game. Bill Belichick didn’t offer much explanation afterward.
Although he was active, Jackson didn’t play a single snap during a 27-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Reporters couldn’t spot him on the sideline either.
During his post-game press conference, Belichick said Jackson wasn’t available. However, he wouldn’t explain why.
“He wasn’t available,” Belichick said, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “Leave it at that.”
Question: Was J.C. Jackson available for the game?
Bill Belichick: “No.”
Question: Then why was he active for the game?
Belichick: “He wasn’t available. Leave it at that.” pic.twitter.com/gLwulODcJx
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) December 17, 2023
Alex Austin started in Jackson’s place. Per NESN’s Zack Cox, the seventh-round rookie said he found out he would start shortly before the game began.
Jackson collected 25 interceptions through four seasons in New England before parlaying a 2021 Pro Bowl campaign into a five-year $82.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Chargers. Injuries marred his first season in L.A., and the Chargers benched him this September.
Shortly after, New England reunited with the corner by acquiring him and a 2025 seventh-round pick for a 2025 sixth.
Jackson has since started six of eight games for the Pats. Per Pro Football Reference, the 28-year-old has allowed 29 catches on 51 targets for 394 yards and four touchdowns.
Pro Football Focus gives Jackson a 34.8 grade out of 100 this season, the lowest of 118 eligible cornerbacks.
With Jackson sidelined, New England allowed 305 passing yards to Patrick Mahomes, who threw two touchdowns and interceptions each. Rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice caught all nine targets for 91 yards and a score.
The Patriots dropped to an AFC-worst 3-11 with their sixth loss in the last seven games. Jackson’s status will be an intriguing side plot over the season’s final three weeks.