NFL Free Agent Rumors: Which Teams Will Pursue Vincent Jackson?

San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson is set to hit free agency on March 13 and should be one of the most sought-after players on the open market. As things stand, virtually every report states that Jackson would like to return to San Diego but he won't accept a huge hometown discount to do so. 

Jackson is expected to get a deal somewhere in the five-year, $50 million range, and the Chargers are expected to let him shop around before making their pitch. The team wants to let other franchises set the market for the two-time Pro Bowler so they don't end up overpaying to keep him.

The Washington Redskins, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers are all expected to go hard after Jackson, who has played his entire seven-year career in San Diego. 

The Northern Colorado product is one of the NFL's most explosive playmakers and he has shown that he has size, speed and phenomenal hands. At 6'5" and 230 pounds he is not only an intimidating presence, but is incredibly skilled as well. 

Jackson caught 60 passes in 2011 for 1,106 yards and nine touchdowns, and in 2009 (his last full season) he had 68 receptions for 1,167 yards and nine scores. In 2010 he was locked in a contract dispute with the Chargers and only played in five games.

I think the Chargers and Jackson will get something done, though it won't be until after the wideout hits free agency. Both sides want to continue their relationship and unless he gets a ridiculous contract offer from another team, San Diego is probably where he'll end up staying.