Jaquan Brisker's Rapid Ascent Has Even Shocked Bears Coaches

GM Ryan Poles had a clear vision for who he wanted as the 2nd round of the 2022 draft unfolded. There were two players on his board that stood far above the rest. One was Washington cornerback Kyler Gordon. The other was Penn State safety Jaquan Brisker. When the Chicago Bears went on the board, both were available. Poles decided to go with the more premium position, selecting Gordon. However, luck was on his side. A few picks later, when the Bears were up again, Brisker was still there. He didn't hesitate.

Fast forward several months, and the organization seems happy with their returns thus far. Gordon got off to a rough start in September and October but seemed to improve throughout November. On the other hand, Brisker was an instant impact from the moment he stepped on the field. He leads the team with three sacks, is fourth in tackles (73), and has both an interception and forced fumble. Impressive, considering he's a rookie and playing behind what might be the worst front seven in the NFL. Even head coach Matt Eberflus admitted he didn't expect Brisker to be this far along.

“We’re pleasantly surprised where he is, where he’s grown to, and every time we’ve asked him to do something to get better at, he’s done it. So we’re excited where this is going here the next four games.”

Jaquan Brisker represents a promising rookie class.

Poles didn't have much to work with when he took over in January. That extra 2nd round pick that landed Brisker came over in the Khalil Mack trade. Chicago started the draft with only six picks. Only through an array of trades did they end up with 11. While it's too early to make final judgments, one can make a case that Poles delivered a solid first off-season. Brisker is the centerpiece. He looks like a future Pro Bowler. Gordon has flashed enough potential to look like a starter. Braxton Jones hasn't missed a snap at left tackle and has improved steadily all year. Last but not least, undrafted linebacker Jack Sanborn is a surprise bonus since becoming a starter.

Given the resources he had, getting four starters out of that off-season would be a big win for Poles. Jaquan Brisker looks like he will be one of the foundational pieces for this new defense Eberflus is building. The next step is retooling an undermanned defensive line that can't sack the quarterback or stop the run. Once they can apply pressure again, Brisker's effectiveness should improve even more.