NFL Rumors: Which Teams Will Pursue Vincent Jackson?

The San Diego Chargers will almost certainly not use the franchise tag on wide receiver Vincent Jackson and they apparently aren't close on a long-term contract, so the two-time Pro Bowler will almost certainly hit free agency on March 13. 

ESPN's Adam Schefter believes that if Jackson had his way, he would be back in San Diego. That would almost certainly be his preference, but he probably won't give the team a serious discount to return. 

Jackson will probably be the most sought after wide receiver in this free agent class and plenty of teams could use an upgrade on the outside. The Minnesota Vikings could certainly use Jackson, and they even made a run at him when Jackson and the Chargers were at odds over a contract in 2010. They are likely to go after him again.

Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers could really use another wideout, especially with San Francisco native Stevie Johnson now off the market. The Carolina Panthers will also be in the market for a receiver to pair with Steve Smith. 

Other teams certain to kick the tires on Jackson are the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, New England Patriots, St. Louis Rams and Washington Redskins. In fact, the 29-year-old will be in such high demand that he is likely to create a bidding war for his services. 

The thing is, Jackson and the Chargers both want him back in San Diego. I get the feeling that while neither side is openly professing love for the other, they both want to get something done quickly and avoid a long, drawn out process. 

The Chargers are likely to wait until Jackson gets an offer or two, letting other teams set the market on the talented receiver before they put their own contract on the table. 

I think Jackson ends up back in San Diego when all is said and done.