"Vincent Jackson's status could play a role as negotiations toward a new NFL labor deal wind to an anticipated resolution over the next few days.

While it is not inconceivable the sensational wide receiver could be playing elsewhere this season, those in the know overwhelmingly believe Jackson will ultimately be a Charger in 2011.

Multiple people around the league said Monday they expect a new Collective Bargaining Agreement to be agreed to within the next six days at the latest, and numerous reports suggest a deal could come sooner.

League officials will convene in Atlanta on Thursday with the idea owners will vote to ratify the CBA and other executives will receive a rules primer.

It is possible undrafted free agents could be signed as soon as Sunday or Monday, and a new league year (and free agency) could begin the middle of next week.

As for what this means specifically to the Jackson-Chargers relationship: how to settle the antitrust lawsuit of which Jackson is a name plaintiff is among the issues reportedly left to haggle as owners and players inch toward a new CBA.

Indications from those close to Jackson have been that he would accept the franchise tag – and the accompanying $11 million-plus for one season -- if he had to. But Jackson's willingness to be a part of the antitrust lawsuit was with an eye toward getting the franchise tag abolished or possibly being exempted from the tag.

By all accounts, Jackson wants to remain in San Diego. But he also believes he has played long enough and well enough to have earned a multi-year deal. Neil Schwartz, Jackson's agent, declined comment when reached Monday."