Chicago Bears: 3 X-factor players for Week 2 vs. Giants

Chicago Bears X-factor No. 2: Eddie Jackson, Free Safety

Safety Eddie Jackson is back at his original free safety position. He dominated playing the position before the Bears switched him to strong safety. He did well there, earning a Pro Bowl appearance, but he wasn’t as dominant as he was as a free safety.

Now that Jackson switched back, he could follow the ball again. Against the Lions, he had six tackles and didn’t do anything else, but he was in on the key interception. He flashed in front of the receiver, blocking his view. That allowed cornerback Jaylon Johnson to deflect the pass up to Kyle Fuller, who made the interception.

Jackson will get his opportunities for the ball against the Giants. The Bears’ pass rush was still good even though they only got to the quarterback for one sack. The pass rush should dominate New York’s offensive line that is still trying to learn to play together as a unit. They should get more sacks in this game but, more importantly, pressure Jones into making mistakes.

The Giants’ offense didn’t get any help from tight end Evan Engram. He had trouble blocking against the Steelers and he only had two catches for nine yards. Lions tight end T.J. Hockenson caught all five of the passes thrown his way for 56 yards and a touchdown, helping the Lions build a big lead. If the defense can keep Engram in check, Jones will have fewer targets and he’ll likely make mistakes.

That’s where Jackson needs to come in. He has a knack for being around the ball so he’ll have his chance to make big plays. He needs to take advantage and come up big. If he does, the Giants will have a long, frustrating day.