The Chicago Bears are starting the week out swinging as they are bringing one of their top free agents mere hours before the tampering period begins in the NFL.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Bears have brought back linebacker D'Marco Jackson on a two-year, $7.5 million contract worth up to $10.5 million. The New Orleans Saints selected Jackson in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and he was originally on a four-year, $3.9 million contract before the team released him last training camp, and the Bears claimed him off waivers.
Last season was by far the best of Jackson's NFL career as he accumulated 43 tackles, three pass deflections, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit, one sack, and one interception in 16 games with four starts. He was named the NFC's Week 15 Defensive Player of the Week in the win against the Cleveland Browns after having seven tackles, one interception, and one sack in the game.
D'Marco Jackson is back on the Bears
This was an expected move for the Bears to make, as they need more depth at linebacker after Tremaine Edmunds was released. Jackson played a massive role late in the season for the Bears, who were dealing with injuries to Edmunds and T.J. Edwards.
Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has known Jackson for a while, as he was his head coach with the Saints and brought him to Chicago. Jackson is not only a threat on defense but also plays a big role on special teams.
With Edmunds gone now, expect Jackson to compete for a starting spot on the defense in 2026. ESPN NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler said the Bears could target Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone, so Chicago could bring in competition for Jackson and Edwards.
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It's a great move for the Bears as they get a key defensive player back for 2026. This is a nice way to start the week.