Jackson's time running out?
By Rob Reischel, for the Journal Sentinel
Jan. 14, 2011 5:16 a.m. |(21) Comments
Theres a story on Packer Insider and in Packer Plus this week examining Green Bays soon-to-be free agent class. On Thursday afternoon, we caught up with running back Brandon Jackson, whos part of that group.
Jackson is Green Bays leading rusher and a 13-game starter this season. But Thursday afternoon, Jackson sounded like a player whose career in Green Bay is winding down.
Jackson, whose contract ends after the 2010 season, was asked if he thinks hell be a Packer next year. Interestingly, Jackson spoke in the past tense.
I enjoyed my opportunities here, said Jackson, a second round draft pick in 2007. And I really dont know whats going to happen. But if its here, hey, Im glad to be here. If its somewhere else, then Ill take it somewhere else.
Jackson said he owns a house in Green Bay and would prefer to remain a Packer. But Jackson also said Green Bays management team hasnt made any contact with his people.
Jackson, 25, was a solid third down back during his first three years in the NFL. This year, Jackson was asked to carry more of the load and the results were mediocre, at best.
Jackson led the Packers with 703 rushing yards this season and added 342 receiving yards. But Jackson also averaged just 3.7 yards per rushing attempt.
I think I made the most of my opportunities, Jackson said. I think I showed people Im a back that can handle first and second down. Id already proven myself on third down, in the passing game and in the blocking game. I think I helped myself.
Ryan Grant, Green Bays leading rusher from 2007-09, should be fully recovered from an ankle injury that landed him on the injured reserve list Sept. 14. Grant said this week that he expects to be 100% sometime next month and will be a full participant in Green Bays offseason program if a new labor deal is in place.
When you dont play for as long as I have, youve got a lot of pent up frustration, Grant said. When I get back next year, someones going to have to pay.
Rookie James Starks has also emerged and could team with Grant to give the Packers a solid tandem in 2011.
Just where exactly does that leave Jackson? Probably somewhere else.
Theres been no communication between us whatsoever, Jackson said of his people and the Packers. Is that frustrating? I dont know. A little bit.
But its also going to be exciting to see what happens. Its actually an opportunity to see whats going to happen. Im just excited for me, because after the CBA is signed, I think theres going to be some exciting opportunities out there."