Chicago Bears 2021 Free Agency: Top five safety targets

In just a few weeks, the Chicago Bears’ search for an Eddie Jackson running mate ramps up when NFL free agency begins.

And, whatever you do, don’t count out a significant move at the strong safety position for these Bears. Remember, new defensive coordinator Sean Desai was promoted from within after working with the secondary. He knows this group. He knows how important it is to find the right starter next to Jackson.

The biggest aspect of finding a starter opposite Jackson? Someone who would give the former Alabama standout free range, allowing him to roam the field and do what he does best: make plays with his eyes, first and foremost.

Jackson’s best seasons have come when he was allowed to play the free safety position and truly given the freedom to play to his strengths. Vic Fangio knew exactly how to use the kid, and Desai will likely take the same token and use it as well.

But, he and the Bears front office need a long-term starter at strong safety. The defense needs some continuity there. Since losing Adrian Amos a few years back, the Bears have had a couple of fill-ins with Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Tashaun Gipson; both of whom played pretty well.

Chicago could definitely opt to find a long-term starter in this year’s draft, but with other positions like quarterback, offensive line and receiver at the forefront of everyone’s mind, maybe the Bears indeed go the free agency route.

If they do that, the Bears will have plenty of options. Here are the top five safeties to consider when looking at potential starters next to Jackson.