Bears Could Have Pro Bowl Safety Fall in Their Laps Next Year

Eddie Jackson is the first sign of progress the Chicago Bears have made at safety in a long time. The rookie, while not spectacular to this point has shown considerable progress thus far. Problem is this hasn't solved the overarching problem at the position. They're still weak there whether it be Quintin Demps or Adrian Amos starting in the other spot. It's clear they need more help. So how does a Bears Eric Reid plan sound? Naturally a little context is going to be needed. Reid was a first round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 2013. He became their starting safety right away, snagged four interceptions and went to the Pro Bowl as a rookie. He had another strong year in 2014 with three interceptions. Unfortunately things went downhill from there. The 49ers began to make frequent changes to their coaching staff. Reid had a new defensive coordinator in 2015, 2016 and now 2017. The last one switched the scheme from a 3-4 alignment to a 4-3, one he's never played in before. This has led to speculation that the team may be thinking about a change. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://www.sportsmockery.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Trevor-Siemian-Throws-Pick-6-to-Eric-Reid-49ers-vs.-Broncos-Preseason-NFL.mp4"][/video]

A Bears Eric Reid reunion is more than possible in 2018

Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports was asked about what the 49ers will do regarding contract extensions for some of their notable defensive talent. Perhaps his most interesting comments were saved for what they'd likely do at the safety position.

"Jaquiski Tartt could make Eric Reid expendable. If I were a betting man – at this stage in the season – I would wager that Tartt gets signed to a contract extension after the season. I could see the 49ers trying to lock up Tartt and Jimmie Ward to long-term contracts to play those critical roles in the team’s defense. I'm not sure Reid figures into the team's future."

So where do the Bears factor into this? Keep in mind that Vic Fangio is their defensive coordinator. He was also the defensive coordinator for the 49ers in 2013 when Reid was drafted. The safety had his two best seasons as a pro under Fangio's watch. Since the coach left he has just one interception in 28 games. Reid turns 26-years old in December. If this prediction is correct and he hits free agency, it would be foolish for the Bears to not pursue him. Pairing him up with Jackson would give them by far the most talented safety pairing in over a decade. This of course presuming that Fangio is still around next year. Much of that depends on the fate of head coach John Fox in the coming months.