Chicago Bears: Defensive back targets in 2019 NFL free agency

Kareem Jackson, Cornerback – 31 years old

Kareem Jackson spent his career playing the outside corner. He was the Houston Texans’ first-round pick in the 2010 draft. In 2018, the Texans felt he could better be an asset playing the slot. He thrived there, recording a career high in tackles (87) and passes defended (17).

In addition to the slot, Jackson went back and played some deep safety. He was good at preventing the big plays. This is something that plays well in the NFC North, home of some very good quarterbacks.

Having Jackson gives Pagano the flexibility to disguise his moves and to move him around. Moving players around makes the defense harder to figure out and more dangerous. Should Callahan leave, Jackson would be a great replacement.

The Texans have 19 free agents, so they might not be able to re-sign Jackson. They have some big names like Demaryius Thomas, Tyrann Mathieu and Jadeveon Clowney who may command big money. There might not be enough to spend on Jackson.

Free agency has been tough on defensive backs who are past 30 years old. However, the Bears could get a steal with Jackson if other teams decide to pass on him. He can get the job done and give Kevin Toliver some more time to learn the NFL way.