The 49ers’ pass rush could use a lift, and they may get one from an internal source. Defensive end Drake Jackson missed San Francisco’s final nine games in 2023 due to what was originally called a knee injury. NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco on Monday reported Jackson underwent quadriceps surgery, but Jackson is optimistic he’ll be ready for the 2024 campaign.
“I’ll be out there some time this spring. I can’t wait,” Jackson told Maiocco. “I’m going to be ready for training camp, for sure.”
Having Jackson in camp would be a pretty significant boost for a 49ers DE group that has Chase Young, Randy Gregory and Clelin Ferrell all due to hit free agency this offseason.
In 2023 Jackson notched 3.0 sacks in the season opener, but didn’t have another sack in his other seven contests. His development as a pro has been stunted a couple times through his first two years, and getting on the field for a full training camp would be helpful for that continued growth as a player.
Jackson in 23 games has 21 tackles, five tackles for loss, nine QB hits, 6.0 sacks, nine pass breakups and an interception.
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