Chicago Bears: Comparing the 1985 defense to 2019 group

Eddie Jackson comparison: Dave Duerson

Eddie Jackson broke out as an NFL superstar in 2018, making his first Pro Bowl along with earning first-team All Pro honors. Even garnering some Defensive Player of the Year consideration, Jackson has emerged as quite arguably the league’s top safety. One of the most exciting things about Jackson is the fact that he is only entering his third professional season and is still developing as a player.

Dave Duerson was also a constant star on the Bears’ defense in their quest for glory, racking up 4 straight Pro Bowl seasons from 1985 through 1988. Duerson was no doubt a great player, but Jackson has the potential to be even better and possibly a generational NFL talent. Duerson’s shoes are large to fill, however, as he once recorded a 6 interception and 7 sack season. Although Jackson will certainly never get that many sacks in one season, Eddie’s ability to make plays in the open field will help them to continue to win games.

Ha Ha Clinton-Dix comparison: Gary Fencik

Ha Ha Clinton-Dix is without a doubt the biggest question mark on this defense. After seeing former strong safety Adrian Amos sign a lucrative deal in Green Bay, the Bears signed Clinton Dix to a one year “prove it” deal at a low price. Ha Ha was a Pro Bowler in Green Bay in 2016 when he recorded a 5 interception season. He certainly has the capability to put up big numbers, but must show some consistency. Perhaps playing aside Eddie Jackson can propel him.

Enter Gary Fencik, a Chicago fan favorite back in the team’s glory days. Fencik was a talented player who excelled at intercepting passes, much like Clinton-Dix. While Fencik was on the back end of his career when he won the Super Bowl, Clinton-Dix is entering his prime and is still improving as a football player, which is exciting for Bears fans.