Steelers Now
A former defender of the Pittsburgh Steelers believes he has established himself as one of the best players at his position.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson joined the Los Angeles Chargers last offseason, and following a productive year, he is feeling more confident than ever.
In fact, Jackson thinks he has officially established himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.
“Just to keep the foot on the pedal,” Jackson said, via the team’s official website. “I feel like the last two seasons I’ve emerged, to me personally, as one of the top corners in the league. That’s just kind of how I feel, so just adding to that.”
Jackson, 30, certainly had a lot to prove after agreeing to a mere two-year, $13 million deal. It was quite low after recording a career-high five interceptions with the Steelers in 2025.
He did have a nagging back injury that hindered his play down the stretch, though. According to Pro Football Focus, Jackson was targeted 10 times over his last three games, allowing 10 receptions for 147 yards and two touchdowns, and he did not have an interception or a pass breakup.
However, Jackson was able to pick up right where he left off, racking up another four interceptions and 12 passes defensed with the Chargers in 2026.
While Jackson believes he has the ability to continue putting up similar or better numbers, he’s not concerned with personal accolades, though.
“I’m team first, so I don’t have a personal agenda,” Jackson continued. “I don’t have any personal goals but to be the best teammate I could be. Just blessed to have a group of guys that share that same mindset. Nobody is selfish. Nobody has selfish goals.”
A second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers, Jackson has recorded 364 tackles, one sack, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, 66 passes defensed, 23 interceptions and one touchdown in his professional career.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Former Steelers Defender Puts NFL on Notice: ‘I’ve Emerged’
