Amidst the name calling and finger pointing in the build-up to Sunday’s AFC Championship game, Broncos defensive lineman Malik Jackson has stayed focused on football, even with his future uncertain.

Jackson joined Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro during Afternoon Drive on Tuesday to discuss not only the upcoming rematch with New England, but also his future and whether or not it would be here in Denver.

While unwilling to discuss negotiations between his representation and the team, Jackson sounds open to re-signing and confident a deal would get done.

“I hope to get a deal done soon, its one of those things that’s going to take time,” said Jackson. “I think right now everyone’s focus is getting through this postseason.”

Jackson may be focusing on the playoffs now, but he did mention he is keen to stay in Denver.

“To be honest, as far as where my goals are with getting the next deal done, I love it here,” Jackson continued. “I have my little girl here, so this will always be a special place for me. It is a business, but like I said, I would love to stay here.

Jackson, a 2012 fifth rounder out of Tennessee, has played a key role for the potent Denver defense this year. He posted 34 tackles, five sacks, and was second in the league in passes defended for a defensive lineman with seven. Those pass rush numbers may come in handy when taking on the pass-happy Patriots on Sunday.

“All we can do is try to get our hands up, bat balls, run to the ball,” said Jackson when asked about defending Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and his quick release. “When he does hold it, we need to be there to say hello.”

When asked if he needed to calm himself down for this game given the magnitude, Jackson was already showing signs of calm.

“To be honest with you, it’s just another game.  Maybe if it was a team we had never seen before I’d be a little anxious,” said Jackson. “We play [the Patriots] year in and year out, we played them this year, pretty recently too, so as far as their O-line goes, not many changes have happened.”

Jackson and the Broncos battle for another AFC title against the Patriots Sunday. Kickoff is 1 p.m. MST from Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

Listen to Afternoon Drive’s full discussion with Jackson in the podcast below.

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