10 offseason moves Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears should make
By Ryan Heckman
6. The Chicago Bears should do whatever it takes to trade Eddie Jackson
When Eddie Jackson burst onto the scene during his first two seasons, all that glittered was gold. It seemed this guy made a big play every single week, including several takeaways and a defensive touchdown every once and a while.
Jackson quickly became an All Pro, but just as quick as he ascended, Jackson has fallen off in a big way. Now, he’s looked at as one of the weaker links on this Bears defense. His aggression is non-existent. Missed tackles abound. Jackson is not the same player he was just a short time ago.
If the Bears want to improve this defense, they should think about trading Jackson — if they can find any takers.
Over the next three seasons, Jackson will count $15 million, $17 million and $18 million against the Bears’ cap before finally becoming a free agent in 2025. That is a ton of money wrapped up in a guy who has taken such a dramatic step back in his play since getting paid.
Even if the Bears received a late-round pick in exchange for Jackson, they should do it simply to shed some salary. Otherwise, they could cut him next year with just a $9 million loss.