Morning Dump

Don’t look for Vincent Jackson’s name among those designated Monday as franchise players. He didn’t make the cut. Instead, the San Diego Chargers will take their chances re-signing the talented wide receiver, and, while that’s a risk, it’s a calculated one.

The question is: how much will the Chargers dedicate to pursuing Williams? He would be a great fit in San Diego, but there will be a lot of competition. Still, I understand why the Chargers would be interested in Williams. He is, by far, the best pass-rusher available in free agency. The Chargers were hoping to be in on the Colts’ Robert Mathis, but he re-signed with the Colts on Monday.

Chicago’s expected play for San Diego Chargers receiver Vincent Jackson might require a contract that significantly eclipses the five-year, $36.25 million deal signed Monday by Buffalo Bills receiver Stevie Johnson, which included $19.5 million guaranteed, and $24 million over the first three years.

Unlike a year ago, the San Diego Chargers decided not to use the franchise tag on their top wide receiver. Such a move would have counted more than $13 million against the salary cap, a number General Manager A.J. Smith decided the team just couldn’t afford this year.

But if you asked Smith, he’d probably say defensive end, cornerback, safety, defensive tackle and linebacker.

Now that the Free Agency/Franchise Tag dust has settled, it’s clear there is one top-flight free agent wide receiver that will be hitting the open market and it’s Vincent Jackson.   Dwayne Bowe, DeSean Jackson and Wes Welker got tagged,while Stevie Johnson signed an extension.  That leaves Jackson and Colston among the top unrestricted free agents for whom teams will be vying.