Chicago Bears defensive back Eddie Jackson will be missed.
After seven electric seasons in the Windy City, Jackson was cut by the Bears to free up cap space and because of Jackson's injury history, per NFL.com. This is a sign we've entered Phase 2 of Bears general manager Ryan Poles rebuild. While it's unfortunate he had to be cut, it's the right move for a team trying to get younger and save money to make a splash in free agency.
The two-time Pro Bowler was a big-time playmaker for years. He left an impressive highlight reel. Out of all his seasons, his effort in 2018 is the best. Considering he just turned 30, it might be the best season for the foreseeable future.
Let's take a look at Jackson's career year with the Bears.
Based off the stats, Jackson most definitely had his most productive season. He finished with six interceptions, two pick-sixes, 15 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, one sack, 51 tackles and one fumble recovery he returned 65 yards for a touchdown, per Pro Football Reference. To put it simply, Jackson was a beast.
His three touchdowns were the most for a defensive player that season. The craziest part is that all three were in November. Over his first two seasons, Jackson scored five touchdowns. That's unheard of for a defensive player. Not even Deion Sanders or Lawrence Taylor scored that much. Jackson was voted to his first Pro Bowl and was named First-Team All-Pro.
When you look past the stats, Jackson was simply fun to watch during the 2018 campaign.
The craziest part is he wasn't even the best player on the Bears' defense that season. Linebacker Khalil Mack was the ace of the defense and was a Defensive Player of the Year finalist, coming in second to Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald. The 2018 Bears defense had four Pro Bowlers and could've gone far if it weren't for the Double Doink.
Since being cut, Jackson has been linked to the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets, per Sportskeeda.