D’Qwell Jackson Would Be Shocked To Not Be Back With The Browns Next Year

Browns ILB D’Qwell Jackson told reporters on Friday that he would be “absolutely” shocked if he was not back with the team in 2014.

“I don’t even like talking about it,’‘ Jackson said, via the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “I know it’s a business and things change all the time, but as far as I’m concerned I haven’t thought about that one time. I feel good in my position where I am. From what I know, I’m part of the plans, I’ll be here next year.”

Jackson, 30, is due a roster bonus of $4.1 million on March 11, which could be a consideration for the Browns. Releasing Jackson would free up $9.43 million in cap space, even though Cleveland does have a good deal of cap space to work with in 2014

Jackson is, however, the leader of the defense, so it’s at least possible that the Browns could approach him regarding restructured deal that would reduce his high cap figure while still keeping the middle of their defense intact.

Pro Football Focus has Jackson rated as the No. 32 qualifying inside linebacker in the league, which is below average for the position.

The decision on Jackson is one of many important questions facing the Browns this coming offseason as C Alex Mack and S T.J. Ward will also become free agents.