The Chicago Bears successfully reshaped the interior of their offensive line this offseason. The process began when Chicago finalized a deal with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire guard Jonah Jackson on March 4. The next day, the Bears closed a deal to acquire All-Pro guard Joe Thuney for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Finally, Chicago signed center Drew Dalman on the first day of free agency. Although all of these transactions were technically processed on the same day when each player was actually acquired is somewhat important. Jackson being the first player the Bears went after is significant, given his history with new head coach Ben Johnson.
That said, the former Pro Bowl guard recently shared his motivations for his time in Chicago with Go Long's Tyler Dunne. Jackson said, "All that matters is how you bounce back. I'm excited to get back to it and string a full season together and get a damn ring."
Jonah Jackson Sets a Clear Goal for His Time in Chicago
Jackson's words ring true for both him and the Bears organization. Last season, the 28-year-old missed six games due to injury. Then, shortly after his return, he was benched. It's clear that Jackson believes that last season was an anomaly, and it seems that Johnson agrees with him.
In regards to the Bears, last season did not go as planned. Entering the 2024 campaign, hopes were high after drafting Caleb Williams and paring weapons and a good defense around him. Despite things looking to be set up for success, 2024 didn't go well, as Chicago went 5-12 with many disappointing losses.
After the debacle of a season in 2024, the City of Chicago is hopeful for a bounce-back year in Johnson's first season. Furthermore, Jackson is looking forward to being part of a potential turnaround in Chicago, adding, "Screw the personal accolades," Jackson said. "It's to win it all. The Bears are such a historic franchise and they've been there before. We're excited to be a part of a turnaround."
The 28-year-old is no stranger to seeing a franchise turnaround after being part of the Detroit Lion's new winning culture. While winning the Super Bowl in 2025 may be a long shot, Jackson might be able to help the Bears reach it in 2026.