Bears' S Eddie Jackson Determined for Comeback, Declares 'No More Time to Waste

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Vince Carbonneau
June 13, 2023 (6:46 PM)

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In recent weeks, Eddie Jackson, the Bears' ace safety, has been making impressive strides in the secondary at full speed during spring practices. It's a sight that is not only captivating but one that brings hope for the Bears' upcoming season.

This season, the Bears have taken a high-stakes gamble, particularly betting on Jackson's capability to recuperate from a Lisfranc injury on his left foot � an essential card in their pack. His recent exhibitions, effortlessly carrying out reps, show a promising comeback in sight.

Last season saw Jackson wrap up with his foot secured in a boot, even requiring a scooter for mobility around the locker room post-games. After two immobile months and intense rehabilitation, Jackson now radiates a renewed passion for the game.

"It's the small things you appreciate: the ability to practice, to run, to give your all," he expressed on Tuesday.

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It's opportune timing for both Jackson and the Bears, who are pinning their hopes on him to reinforce their secondary, potentially the strongest part of their lineup. As he nears 30, Jackson is keen to prove that his career isn't slowing down.

"These are crucial years that we must not waste," he asserted. "I have to perform at my best and create plays. We have a youthful team, and they look up to me. For me, it's the 7th year, so there's no room for wasted years."

Jackson posed a compelling conundrum for general manager Ryan Poles and coach Matt Eberflus when they took the reins last year: Was he a remnant of the Ryan Pace era worth retaining?

At the time, Jackson was 28, three seasons after earning an All-Pro title. Amid Poles' extensive financial overhaul, Jackson's $15.1 million salary was the team's second-largest cap hit. With a price tag of $17.1 million this season and $18.1 million in 2024, he remains the second highest-paid player on the roster.

Jackson's cap space is considerable, but when he's at the top of his game, he's comparable to Hall of Famer Ed Reed.

Before the unfortunate injury, last season saw Jackson at his best, determined to redefine his game.

"I could truly begin afresh and grow from that point," he shared. Aiding his unique style of safety, the Bears brought in Jaquan Brisker as a complementary player. Jackson didn't disappoint, asserting himself as a disruptive force with three interceptions and a forced fumble in the first four games. Despite his injury in November, Jackson was on course for a Pro Bowl selection, leading in tackles and adding another interception in Week 8 against the Cowboys.

The arrival of Eberflus and defensive coordinator Alan Williams reinvigorated Jackson. His early buy-in to Eberflus' staunch vision not only benefited rookies and journeymen but also made him one of Eberflus' favored players.

"Eddie's dedication is extraordinary," Eberflus noted. "He's tirelessly worked to get back in form post-injury. His passion for football facilitated his recovery. His hard work and the wisdom he imparts to our entire secondary � he's the one experienced player in there who brings that level of expertise. We truly appreciate where Eddie is at this point."

He's irreplaceable, and continues to be one of the team's most significant success stories.

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13 JUIN \| 29 ANSWERS Bears' S Eddie Jackson Determined for Comeback, Declares 'No More Time to Waste Is Eddie Jackson a top-10 safety in the NFL?
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