Chicago Bears: The top 10 most important players of 2021

Most important Chicago Bears of 2021: Eddie Jackson

When you think back to that fun 2018 season, there are a couple of players who stand out as main reasons why the Bears had such a successful year. Close to the top of the list is safety Eddie Jackson, who was a walking, talking highlight reel.

That year, Jackson had six interceptions, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and scored three defensive touchdowns. He also had 15 passes defensed, which is remarkable for a safety not always playing in man coverage like a cornerback.

Jackson made some big, game-changing plays back in that season. Now, he’s the leader of this secondary. With Kyle Fuller gone, there is no doubt Jackson is the guy everyone is looking to as the leader back there.

This season is a crucial one for Jackson, who hasn’t seemed like the same player over his last two seasons. That 2018 campaign was special, and so was his rookie year. But, over the last two years, his play has taken a bit of a step back. It’s not only the lack of takeaways, but poor tackling we’ve seen from Jackson.

This defense needs Jackson to be elite in 2021. He has no choice. The unit will go as he goes. if he’s not at his best, the Bears’ defense won’t be at their best.