Bears Icon Expresses Concern: �Eddie Jackson's Performance is Lacking'
Dan Hampton, a storied figure from the Chicago Bears, was far from impressed with the performance of safety Eddie Jackson in the team's initial defeat to the Green Bay Packers.
Hampton, a linchpin of the illustrious Super Bowl-winning 1985 Bears defense, devoted 12 seasons (1979-1990) to the defensive line for the Bears. The revered Hall of Famer now shares his Bears insights on WGN's «Hamp & O'B» show, co-hosting with another former Bear, Ed O'Bradovich.
In the aftermath of the Bears' 38-20 loss to the Packers, Hampton found faults across the board but reserved especially sharp remarks for the team's All-Pro safety. He specifically mentioned a play where Jackson was outmaneuvered by Packers' sophomore wide receiver Romeo Doubs, resulting in a touchdown in the first quarter.
Furthermore, Hampton scrutinized the 'HITS' mantra championed by head coach Matt Eberflus � an acronym symbolizing Hustle, Intensity, Takeaways, and (playing) Smart. He stressed that Jackson's recent displays were hardly in line with these ideals.
Highlighting the 'Hustle' component, Hampton remarked, «Look at Eddie Jackson's approach. It's lackluster. His tackling is weak, and he's frequently off-mark in the end zone.»
O'Bradovich chimed in, «Jackson's current form is abysmal.»
Hampton continued, «Considering turnovers, hustle, and intensity � does this appear to be a well-thought-out coaching strategy? To me, the defense seemed ill-prepared. The zest and zeal were glaringly missing.»
Dan Hampton Holds No Punches on the Bears' PerformanceHampton intensified his criticism, adding, "If Eddie Jackson is in the starting lineup next week, it questions the team's intent to win. He's been rather unimpressive." Hampton then pointed to another instance from the Packers' game. «Earlier in the drive, Aaron Jones was advancing, and Jackson seemed more keen on dodging than stopping him. Jones easily secured the first down and kept the drive alive.»
Despite Jackson registering four tackles and deflecting a pass, Hampton didn't stop at him. He shared his dismay with the performances of other players, specifically linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards.
"The game film is hard to watch," lamented Hampton. "There was noticeable complacency."
Those familiar with the Bears' ethos know that coach Eberflus is known to focus on eliminating "loafs" � instances where players are deemed less than 100% committed on the field.
The road ahead doesn't promise any reprieve for the Bears. They're up against the in-form 1-0 Tampa Bay Buccaneers next, followed by a face-off with the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 3. Maybe the Bears' uninspiring start is just a case of early season nerves. However, they need to rectify things swiftly to avoid a potential 0-3 start.
