Bears' Jaquan Brisker Shows Significant Improvement and Positive Progress Toward Playing in Week 1 Against Packers
In his second year with the Bears, safety Jaquan Brisker seems to be on a positive trajectory for the team's season opener this Sunday against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field, despite missing nearly four weeks of practice.
While most of his teammates enjoyed a three-day break with their families, Brisker opted to stay back for crucial rehab sessions. During Monday's light practice at Halas Hall, he participated in stretching exercises and even wore a helmet during the brief period open to media.
"Jaquan is definitely making strides," commented head coach Matt Eberflus on Monday. "This Wednesday is pivotal for him, but signs are currently pointing in the right direction. He, along with [safety Eddie Jackson], had productive workouts over the weekend. We're optimistic about both of them, but Wednesday will provide further clarity."
Confident in his own progress, Brisker sees Wednesday as a key milestone in determining his ability to play this Sunday. "I'm feeling good," Brisker said. "I'm taking it step-by-step, day-by-day. Today went really well, so we'll keep moving in that direction and see what Wednesday holds."
Brisker kept details of his injury under wraps but emphasized that he feels significantly better than he did just a few weeks ago. "The improvement is drastic," he said. "Two weeks ago, things weren't looking good. Now, I'm really eager for Wednesday. It's a crucial day for me."
Before his injury, Brisker had been a standout player in the early phase of the Bears' training camp. The Penn State alum is eager to return to that level of performance, if not exceed it. "My early camp performance was All-Pro level," he stated. "I've gained both strength and speed since then, and I aim to continue on that All-Pro path."
Brisker's positive outlook makes it increasingly likely that he'll be on the field for Week 1, a prospect made even more enticing by the fact that the Bears are playing their longtime rivals, the Packers.
"There's definitely an extra spark knowing we're opening against the Packers," Brisker said. "I missed the second game against them here in Chicago last year, so I'm especially eager to be part of the action this time. The energy is going to be incredible in the stadium, and I can't wait to be a part of it."
Whether that hope materializes will largely depend on how things unfold this Wednesday.
| POLL | ||
5 SEPTEMBRE | 21 ANSWERS Bears' Jaquan Brisker Shows Significant Improvement and Positive Progress Toward Playing in Week 1 Against Packers Is Jaquan Brisker a top 10 NFL safety? | ||
| Yes | 14 | 66.7 % |
| No | 7 | 33.3 % |
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