The free agency window is close to opening in less than a month from now and Houston Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson is in position to hit the open market, unless the Texans and General Manager Rick Smith can strike a deal to keep their 1st round draft pick of 2009 in town.

Jackson was interviewed on SiriusXM NFL Radio discussing his upcoming free agency period.

“Definitely anxious, you know Rick Smith has been in contact with my agent," said Jackson to Bruce Murray and Rich Gannon on SiriusXM NFL Radio. “Everything sounds good as far as their talks, they say they want to get something done actually before free agency actually starts.”

“We kinda keeping our fingers crossed to hopefully get something done, if not we’ll just have to see what happens in free agency," finished Jackson.

Jackson has made it clear many times at the end of the season and in recent interviews that his first choice is to stay in Houston. Today he echoed that thought but made it clear there is more out there if need be.

“You wanna sign back with Houston, but at the same time you have to understand it is a business,” Jackson stated. “I understand everybody is trying to do the best thing possible for themselves and the organization. I approach it like that and be open about everything.”

Jackson pointed out the things that would make another franchise a possible destination, in the event he hits the free agency market. The city seems to be a big draw for Jackson, who mentioned he has to live there all year. Also, Jackson outlined some particulars if he does become a free agent.

“I definitely want to go somewhere to be coached by a great defensive coordinator, head coach. Want to be a part of team that is making strides in the right direction to compete for a championship at the end of the year," said Jackson. "At the end of the day the only thing that matters is winning games.”

Jackson continued, “I want to go somewhere where guys definitely have a chance to win a lot of games.“

The road Jackson has taken has not been an easy one, starting with a rookie season that was filled with disappointment. Jackson has put those rough seasons behind him and knows what is in front of him concerning his second contract.

“I don’t think it (money) will be top priority but at the same time you want to be compensated the best way possible. “ said Jackson when asked if money was his top priority. “In this point of your life, the second contract is what you work for. You work day in and day out and compete to get to this point where you will have a chance to make some good money from whatever team it is.”

General Manager Rick Smith has not used the franchise tag since 2009 when they tagged then-star cornerback Dunta Robinson. It has been the only time in franchise history it has been used and to tag Jackson is would cost the Texans $14 million for one season.

“It is something I would rather not do, I would want to be locked in long term with some stability," commented Jackson. “I really haven’t put much thought into being tagged…”

With the offseason picking up, Jackson is looking forward to what is next and getting the best possible deal is in front of the 26-year-old cornerback.

“I just want it to be in the best situation possible this time of year heading into free agency to make a decision to stay in Houston or explore some options from other teams," said Jackson on the upcoming opportunity.

In five seasons with the Texans, Jackson has played in 74 career games (starting 71) and amassed 279 total tackles, 50 pass deflections and 10 interceptions.

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