While the Chicago Bears are coming off a disappointing 2019 season, believe it or not there are reasons for optimism heading into 2020 — and it lies on the defensive side of the ball.
The Bears defense regressed last season, following a breakout season in 2018 that included 36 takeaways. Chicago gave up the fourth fewest points in 2019, but their offense simply couldn’t do their part. Heading into 2020, the Bears are still a top five defense.
Especially after locking down the anchor of the back end of their defense in safety Eddie Jackson, who signed a four-year extension worth $58.4 million last week.
Bleacher Report believes that Jackson is the best reason for hope surrounding this Bears team in 2020.
Jackson isn’t a household name yet, but he played a big part in the Bears’ ability to limit opponents to 222.1 passing yards and 18.6 points per game last season.
On his lonesome, Jackson allowed a 53.5 completion percentage on 43 targets, and had 60 total tackles, two interceptions, five passes defensed and a forced fumble.
While the Bears have to figure out what they’re going to do under center, Jackson is a big reason to hope the team’s biggest strength can carry it again.
A two-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro, Jackson had a down year in 2019, as did most of the defense. But the future looks bright considering what he’s accomplished in his first three seasons as a pro.
Jackson had a breakout year in 2018 with six interceptions, including two that he returned for touchdowns.
In 2019, Jackson had 60 combined tackles, including five for a loss as well as a sack and a forced fumble. He had two interceptions where picks were difficult to come by for the Bears defense.
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