After spending seven seasons with the Chicago Bears, safety Eddie Jackson has been released by the team. Along with Jackson, the Bears also released offensive lineman Cody Whitehair. It is now highly likely that Jackson will join the Philadelphia Eagles, playing under his former defensive coordinator in Chicago, Vic Fangio.
Jackson’s release did not come as a surprise, as it had been hinted at on social media. The move was primarily a financial decision, as releasing Jackson adds $12.56 million to the team’s salary cap. Despite the uncertainty, Jackson remains optimistic about his future, stating, “I feel like I’ll always land on my feet. I hope it’s here, but I know how it works in the business.”
During his time with the Bears, Jackson started in 100 games and was named a first-team All-Pro in 2018. However, foot injuries have plagued him in the last two seasons, limiting his playing time. In 2023, Jackson struggled, giving up 16.9 yards per catch and allowing three touchdowns on 18 targets.
Jackson’s foot injury in Week 2 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers affected his performance for the rest of the season. Now, he is on the lookout for a new team, marking the first time in his career that he will be changing franchises. The Philadelphia Eagles, with their defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, could be a potential landing spot for Jackson.
The Chicago Bears have released Eddie Jackson, a former All-Pro safety who played under Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Jackson, who started 100 games during his seven-year career with the Bears, was named a first-team All-Pro in 2018. However, foot injuries have hindered his performance in recent seasons. In 2023, Jackson struggled, giving up three touchdowns on 18 targets and allowing an average of 16.9 yards per catch.
Jackson’s release was a financial decision, as it adds $12.56 million to the Bears’ salary cap. Despite the uncertainty, Jackson remains hopeful about his future, stating that he believes he will always land on his feet. Now, he is in search of a new team for the first time in his career.
The Philadelphia Eagles could be a potential destination for Jackson, as he would reunite with his former defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. With Fangio’s guidance, Jackson thrived in Chicago and hopes to continue his success in Philadelphia.
As Jackson embarks on this new chapter of his career, he expresses gratitude to the Bears organization and its fans. He leaves behind a legacy in Chicago and looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.
JAQUAN BRISKER TAKES THE LEAD AS CHICAGO BEARS’ TOP SAFETY
In a surprising turn of events, Jaquan Brisker and rookie Elijah Hicks have emerged as the top safeties on the Chicago Bears’ depth chart for the upcoming season. Brisker, entering his third year, will now take on the role of senior member in the group, unless the Bears make additional moves in free agency.
Brisker has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with over the past two seasons, excelling in the strong safety position. Although he may be utilized in different ways due to his versatility and athleticism, it is likely that he will continue to thrive in his current role.
According to Bears safeties coach Andre Curtis, Brisker’s willingness to adapt and contribute in any way necessary has been instrumental to the team’s success. “He’s been deep some, he’s been dropping down some. A couple times he dropped down inside of 14 and played inside out on him. So we’re just using him in different ways. Whatever ways we can try to use him to help us win and he’s all for that,” Curtis stated in December of 2023.
As the Bears consider their options in free agency, notable safeties such as Kyle Dugger from the Patriots, Jordan Fuller from the L.A. Rams, and Kamren Curl from the Commanders are expected to be available. Additionally, the draft presents a promising pool of talented safeties. Given the youth of the secondary, the addition of a veteran player would make strategic sense.
Despite the changes in the safety position, it is important to recognize the contributions of former Bear Eddie Jackson. Jackson has left a lasting impact on the team and should have no trouble finding a new team to continue his career.
By Beth Mishler-Elmore
According to the Source heavy.com