Trojans in the NFL: Adoree’ Jackson’s fifth-year option prediction

The first round of the 2017 NFL Draft saw former USC Trojans CB Adoree’ Jackson land with the Tennessee Titans with the 18th pick. Part of becoming a first-round pick is the minimum four-year contract each first-rounder signs, with a team option to retain or essentially release a player heading into their fifth year. Commonly, those being retained will be done so in the offseason ahead of their fourth year, or in other words for those in the 2017 class, now.

Jackson is in an interesting role here as the Titans had two first-round selections in his draft class as he was drafted after they selected Corey Davis with the fifth overall pick.

While it’s unlikely that Tennessee picks up Davis’ option, that would almost certainly free them up to pick up Jackson’s fifth year.

That’s likely, and would be a strong win for Jackson if they did so.

Playing in the NFL is, of course, never guaranteed but getting that fifth-year option picked up all but seals your fate for another season of drama-free football while you can work with your team on a new extension.

Here’s what ESPN’s Dan Graziano had to say on the matter for Jackson:

There are two tough calls for the Titans in this class. Jackson has been at least as significant a contributor in the return game as he has been on defense. But even with Tennessee’s second-round pick of Kristian Fulton on Friday night, there has been enough turnover in the secondary that Jackson should continue to have a role. Odds are good that they pick up his option.

The verdict: Most likely happening.

Jackson has two career interceptions, both coming during the 2018 season but he has also secured 33 career pass breakups in the process as well. Graziano mentions his return prowess as well and he’s returned 80 total punts or kicks for a total of 1,065 yards in his career as well.

We all saw how vital it is for NFL teams to land cornerbacks with solid upside in this past iteration of the draft so them keeping Jackson is almost a no-brainer to me.

I’d agree with Graziano and say Jackson’s fifth-year option being picked up is most likely happening.