The Facts: Even with a chip on his shoulder and despite various nagging injuries, Jackson has done what has been asked of him on and off the field while playing under the Franchise tag last season and hoping for a long-term contract. And sources indicated recently that GM A.J. Smith is, indeed, now "comfortable" exploring a long-term deal with Jackson.

Diehards Line:Smith intimated before this season that a long-term deal could be in the offing should Jackson go another season making his news solely on the field. The GM has long been a fan of the receiver's production and work ethic. According to Union Tribune staffer Kevin Acee, the Chargers would likely not be inclined to place the franchise tag on Jackson for 2012, as it would cost them $13.7 million to do so and they have other positions of need. But should talks go nowhere with agents Neil Schwartz and Jonathan Feinsod, it is not unfathomable that the Chargers would slap the tag back on Jackson to keep him around another year.