Los Angeles Chargers safety J.C. Jackson has had a warrant issued for his arrest in Massachusetts. This comes after Jackson failed to appear in court for a probation violation hearing related to charges of negligent operation of a motor vehicle and speeding in 2021, when he was still a member of the New England Patriots. The online court records revealed this information on Monday.
The probation violation stemmed from Jackson’s failure to attend or successfully complete the “Brains at Risk” program and pay a $300 fine. This program, run by the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts, aims to raise awareness about the devastating effects of traumatic brain injury and how it relates to dangerous driving behaviors.
Despite being listed as a healthy scratch and not playing in the Chargers’ win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the team asserts that Jackson’s arrest warrant had nothing to do with his absence. It was surprising to see Jackson benched, considering he had recently signed a lucrative five-year, $82.5 million contract with the Chargers in 2022. Unfortunately, his time with the team has been marred by injury, as he ruptured his patellar tendon in just his fifth game.
During the two games he played this season, Jackson demonstrated his skills by securing an interception, defending three passes, and making three tackles. However, he has also allowed a touchdown on six completions out of 13 targets, according to Pro Football Focus.
Before joining the Chargers, Jackson spent four seasons with the New England Patriots after going undrafted out of Maryland. He had an impressive 2021 season, earning a Pro Bowl nomination and a second-team All-Pro selection by recording eight interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, and leading the league with 23 passes defended.
As of now, it remains uncertain whether Jackson will be available for the Chargers’ Week 4 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.