Vincent Jackson signs with the San Diego Chargers
Vincent Jackson, the Pro Bowl wide receiver, has signed his contract tender with the San Diego Chargers. Jackson, who refused to sign the tender in the summer, will miss the Chargers next three games as
he serves a team mandated suspension.
Jackson became a restricted free agent when his contract expired at the conclusion of the 2009-2010 NFL season. In June the Chargers offered Jackson a one-year tender of $3.268 million. Jackson, searching
for a long-term deal, let the deadline for signing the tender pass. The Chargers subsequently reduced the amount of their offer to $583,000 for one season.
Over the summer, ESPN reported that Jackson was seeking a five-year contract worth $50 million with $30 million of that guaranteed. When the Chargers did not put forth an offer, Jackson said he would “absolutely”
sit out the 2010-2011 season if needed.
Jackson’s stance on holding out for the entire season softened after speaking to NFL Players Association representatives. The union suggested that Jackson return to the Chargers in order to secure an accrued
season toward his eventual unrestricted free agency.
Once Jackson serves his suspension he will be eligible to play in six games for the Chargers. His salary for the remainder of the season will be $240,058.
The three game suspension is due to the fact that on 20 August; Chargers general manager A.J. Smith placed Jackson on the roster exempt list. Once a player on the roster exempt list signs a contract they
face a mandatory three game suspension.
It is believed that the Chargers are reluctant to sign Jackson to a long-term deal due to off field issues; Jackson has had two DUI arrests since 2006.
On the field, Jackson is a solid performer. Last season he had 68 receptions for 1167 yards and nine touchdowns. His career numbers over five seasons are; 198 receptions for 3400 yards with 25 touchdowns.
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