2012 NFL Free Agent Predictions: Best Landing Spots for Vincent Jackson

The San Diego Chargers have not used their franchise tag on Vincent Jackson. There are multiple attractive destinations for Jackson should he depart.

The New England Patriots could use a deep threat, but they already have to pay one top-flight wide receiver. 

The Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars can also be dismissed because of their unproven quarterbacks. 

However, other options abound from coast to coast.

Honorable Mention: Philadelphia Eagles

Any speculation about Vincent Jackson replacing DeSean Jackson is dead.

The Philadelphia Eagles have placed their franchise tag on their DeSean.

Vincent would have been interesting with the Eagles. 

He could have been a bigger DeSean, stretching the field and giving Jeremy Maclin room to operate. 

5. Washington Redskins

Daniel Snyder is never scared to make a big splash.

However, signing Vincent Jackson wouldn't be foolish. Washington can't let former mistakes Albert Haynesworth and Bruce Smith affect this decision.

The Redskins are obviously desperate for pass-catchers. They franchised tight end Fred Davis, who had a good—not great—year.

If Washington lands Peyton Manning, then the Skins have made the decision to win now. They need to add Jackson as a legitimate deep threat to give the offense an opportunity to thrive. 

4. San Francisco 49ers

Michael Crabtree would be a more respected player for his production if he hadn't held out. By doing so, he unequivocally stated that he was among the best.

He isn't.

The San Francisco 49ers have a large amount of cap space and could certainly use a big-play threat to pair with Vernon Davis. Enter Vincent Jackson.

Jackson understands the benefits of having a top-flight tight end and would get to stay on the west coast. The 49ers would be able to keep defenses from stacking against their Frank Gore-led rushing attack.

If Alex Smith weren't such a wild card, this destination would be farther up the list.

3. St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams must get Sam Bradford some help. 

There are indications that the offensive line may be better than previously thought. However, the best way to protect a quarterback is to give him a jump-ball target.

Vincent Jackson can provide that safety blanket. He would provide the big, physical presence that the Rams lack on the outside.

Lastly, by signing Jackson, that would free the Rams to fortify the defense in the draft.

2. Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears wasted little time jumping to the head of the pack to sign Vincent Jackson.

It's the right move.

Jay Cutler needs a wide receiver that can take advantage of his arm strength.

Jackson wants to prove he is a complete player and would certainly get a chance to in Chicago. The Bears don't have many other legitimate pass-catching targets on their current offense. 

In addition, Chicago has plenty of players who could complement Jackson, including the recently franchised Matt Forte and young slot receiver Dane Sanzenbacher.

1. San Diego Chargers

The grass isn't always greener on the other side. Neither is the money.

The San Diego Chargers are still the best fit for Vincent Jackson, and he knows it. He will listen to other teams, but assuredly will be hoping the Chargers match any offers.

There isn't any reason to believe that Philip Rivers' 2011 season was more than a hiccup during a stellar career. The value of a top-five quarterback and stud tight end are immeasurable to Jackson's success.

In addition, general manager A.J. Smith has done well to keep the Chargers stocked with talent—thus, the constant Super Bowl expectations that have followed this team for the last decade.

San Diego is considered a great place to live and Jackson already knows the offensive system.

He will most likely remain a Charger.