Bears Encouraged to Consider Former First-Round Packers DB as Potential Replacement for Eddie JacksonFollowing Eddie Jackson's departure, the Chicago Bears are on the lookout for a new safety, and the
Following Eddie Jackson's departure, the Chicago Bears are on the lookout for a new safety, and they might find a suitable candidate in Green Bay Packers' soon-to-be free agent defensive back.
Lester Wiltfong Jr. of SB Nation's Windy City Gridiron highlighted several free agency options for the Bears on February 17, spotlighting Darnell Savage, the Packers' 21st overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Savage, set to be 27 by the start of training camp, has accumulated significant experience with 69 starts and nine interceptions over his five seasons, despite missing seven games last season due to a calf injury. Wiltfong points out that Savage's performance, especially in run defense and tackling, offers an upgrade over Jackson, despite being regarded as a good, rather than great, player.
Savage emerges as a cost-effective solution for the Bears, particularly when considering the high market value of other free-agent safeties like Budda Baker and Antoine Winfield Jr., who could demand salaries beyond what the Bears are prepared to offer given their other roster needs. Despite Chicago's substantial cap space, strategic allocation is crucial, with significant investments needed in various positions including defensive tackle, edge rusher, and wide receiver.
Last season, Savage played under a $7.9 million fifth-year option, making him a financially viable option for the Bears' secondary.
With Jackson's release, alongside offensive lineman Cody Whitehair, Jaquan Brisker is now poised to lead the Bears' safety group. Brisker has demonstrated his capabilities over two seasons, showcasing his versatility and leadership qualities on the field.
