Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
San Diego receiver
Vincent Jackson was
arrested Tuesday morning on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. According to reports, it is his second arrest for DUI, and he was on probation for the first.
Count this as a distraction for San Diego as it prepares for the AFC divisional playoff game at Pittsburgh on Sunday. It isn't a devastating distraction and the Chargers should be able to regroup and stay focused on the game itself. But it is something the team will have to deal with early in the week.
San Diego general manager A.J. Smith already released a statement on the subject Tuesday. You think Smith doesn't have better things to do this week than to respond to an arrest of a starting player? Players and coaches will be asked about it Wednesday when the team begins the work week in earnest. Jackson will have to deal with it.
He is vital player for San Diego: If the Chargers are going to upset Pittsburgh, Jackson needs to have a big game. He needs to regain his focus.
The Chargers are already dealing with the very possible idea of playing without star running back LaDainian Tomlinson and now this is on their plate. Again, it is not a debilitating distraction but it is an issue that has to be dealt with and that is unnecessary.
Meanwhile, if Jackson is convicted, he will likely face some type of NFL disciplinary action especially since it is his second arrest.
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
