Chicago Bears: 3 Takeaways vs. Panthers in Week 7
2. While Trubisky gets the attention, this guy could be steal of draft
The defense played a great game against the Panthers. While they all deserve some credit, one player stood out — safety Eddie Jackson.
The Bears drafted Jackson, out of Alabama, in the fourth round (112th overall) of this year’s draft. When all is said and done, this may be a steal for general manager Ryan Pace. Jackson has first-round talent, but an injury he suffered last season scared off teams 111 times. When Pace found him available as late as he was, and he felt comfortable with his medical records, he pulled the trigger.
More from Chicago Bears
- Chicago Bears HC Matt Eberflus speaks on a number of team issues
- Roschon Johnson showing he can be Chicago Bears RB1
- Lingering free agent could be an absolute godsend for Chicago Bears
- Chicago Bears: Should Tyson Bagent be the backup quarterback?
- Chicago Bears: 3 replacements if Justin Fields isn’t the answer
Jackson’s been a godsend. He plays the position with no visible signs of the injury he had. The Bears have a history of failed safeties almost as long as their failed quarterbacks, and this draft might give them an answer at both.
Jackson has 27 tackles for the season. He looks like a veteran on the field. Against the Panthers, he made history. He became the first rookie in NFL history to have two turnover runs of over 75 yards in a season. And he did it in one game! Ironically, Jackson made NFL history on the anniversary of the day he broke his leg that ended his career and helped bring him to Chicago.
Trubisky gets all the attention and rightfully so as the quarterback. Having Jackson, however, really helps the team now. Trubisky is still learning on the job, but Jackson is making an impact on and helping transform the defense. Hopefully, Jackson continues his ascension in the NFL and he becomes a staple of another great era of Bears defensive players.