Few players across the NFL made a name for themself like inside linebacker Nick Jackson of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The undrafted free agent out of Iowa had a strong camp, and his strong play transferred seamlessly to game action.
Jackson led all Buccaneers in tackles, and made a few splash plays with two sacks and an interception.
He was widely expected to make the final roster as the No. 4 inside linebacker, especially after veteran Anthony Walker Jr.’s release after an extended stint on the NFI list.
Instead, the Buccaneers informed Jackson of his release on Monday ahead of the final deadline on Tuesday at 4 p.m., where teams must be down to 53 players.
Surprising release of Nick Jackson is a risky move for Buccaneers
Jackson is an obvious candidate to be brought back on the practice squad if he clears waivers, but that’s a big if.
With the playmaking ability he showcased during the preseason, another team may be interested in Jackson and pounce to bring them to their active roster.
Inside linebacker is arguably Tampa Bay’s thinnest position group, with little depth behind Lavonte David and injury prone SirVocea Dennis. The remaining linebackers on the roster are veteran Deion Jones, Antonio Grier Jr., and fellow undrafted linebacker John Bullock.
The Buccaneers will be holding their breath that nobody claims Jackson off waivers so that they have a strong option on the practice squad that can be called up to the active roster in case of injury.
But even if the Buccaneers are able to bring Jackson back to the practice squad, it’s still a surprise that they decided to part ways with such a promising young player at one of their weakest position groups.
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