Chargers News: J.C. Jackson Anticipated to Return for Week 1 Matchup

This would be a big boost for the Bolts!

The Los Angeles Chargers season begins on Sunday, and the Bolts are expected to get a key reinforcement back for their opener.

Los Angeles cornerback J.C. Jackson was not listed on the team's injury report ahead of the Chargers' Week 1 matchup against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, less than a year after a season-ending knee injury.

Good news for the #Chargers: JC Jackson, who ended his season last year with a serious knee injury, is not listed on the injury report.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 6, 2023

Jackson has been working his way back after tearing the patellar tendon in his right knee in Week 7 of last season.

The sixth-year corner should be a big help for a Chargers team looking to shore up a leaky defense from last season -- one that came back to haunt them in a shocking 31-30 playoff loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars after they led 27-0.

He'll rejoin a Chargers defense that boasts an All-Pro honoree in safety Derwin James and a premier pass rusher in Joey Bosa, but one that still ranked 20th in the NFL last season in yards allowed, as they surrendered roughly 349 yards per game in 2022. 

Jackson and the Chargers will have a tough test right out of the gate, as the Dolphins have one of the best wide receiver duos in the NFL in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. 

Both cracked the 1,000-yard plateau last season and have game-breaking speed and although Waddle has been nursing a midsection injury, he could still play in the opener. 

Sunday will be the beginning of a crucial season for the Chargers, as head coach Brandon Staley is likely on the hot seat after last year's playoff defeat.

But the reintroduction of Jackson into the team's secondary will undoubtedly be a welcome addition as they try to get their year started on the right foot this weekend.