Drake Jackson joined the Commanders one month ago, but in the immediate aftermath of that decision he was moved to injured reserve. The fourth-year defensive end has continued to rehab his injured knee since then. 
Jackson is now moving closer to a Washington debut, though. His practice window has been opened, per a team announcement. Jackson now has up to 21 days to prepare for his first game action since Week 8 of the 2023 campaign. A torn patellar tendon cost him all of last season and ultimately led to the end of his 49ers tenure.
As a former second-round pick, Jackson was viewed as having upside for interested suitors but it remains unclear how much of an impact he will be able to make upon being activated. The Commanders’ defense has been reeling in recent weeks, and head coach Dan Quinn has taken over play-calling duties for the unit. Any additional help will be welcomed at this point.
If Jackson, 24, manages to serve as at least a depth contributor down the stretch, his free agent stock will receive a boost. The Commanders rank mid-pack in terms of sack production this season, with Dorance Armstrong and Von Miller leading the way. Jackson posted three sacks as a rookie, and then matched that figure in Week 1 of the following season before being held without one over the remainder of his appearances. Expectations will be tempered in this case, but the USC product could carve out a rotational role late in the year.
The Commanders have used one of their eight IR activations so far in 2025. Another will be accounted for when safety Will Harris – who was designated for return yesterday – is brought back into the fold. The same will also be true in Jackson’s case.