Grading every rookie from the Chicago Bears 2022 NFL Draft
By Evan Bruner
Chicago Bears Pick No. 49: Jaquan Brisker, S
If fans were surprised that the Bears opted to take Kyler Gordon over a wide receiver, they were absolutely shocked to see them take another defensive back with players such as George Pickens and Alec Pierce still on the board.
At Penn State, Jaquan Brisker played a bit of a hybrid role. Though listed as a safety, he often took on linebacker responsibilities. Unlike Gordon, Brisker didn’t have many growing pains as a rookie. He was an all-around solid safety and proved to be the perfect compliment to Eddie Jackson. He played in a total of 15 games, missing a couple of mid-season games while dealing with a concussion.
Brisker was the Swiss Army knife the Bears’ defense so badly needed making plays in coverage, run game, and occasionally as a pass rusher. He finished the season with 71 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble and led the team with four sacks.
For as many holes as the Bears defensively, they seem to have both safety spots figured out. Had it not been for historically great rookie cornerback play from Tariq Woolen and Gardner, Brisker may have received some consideration for defensive rookie of the year.