Jaquan Brisker suffered a concussion in the Chicago Bears' win over the Carolina Panthers last season. Nobody knew at the time that it would be the last snap he'd play the rest of the year. Despite never going on Injured Reserve, the young safety failed to return. Most believed it was because the team wasn't comfortable with his lack of sufficient recovery. However, Brisker has hinted for some time that he could've returned. He just wasn't allowed to. Either way, he's healthy now and restless to get next season started.
Things took an interesting turn this past week when he put up a post on Instagram and Twitter (X). In it he profusely thanks fans for the support they've given him over the past several months. Then he took responsibility for the Bears falling apart last season.
"I promise to come back better than ever! Your unwavering support means everything to me in these challenging times. From the heart, I appreciate each and every one of my fans, your prayers, and your messages. We didn't finish strong, and I say it’s all my fault... I wish I could have fought alongside my team to WIN—that’s my true passion and purpose. I will rise from this and come back and take what’s mine! Year 4 will be special; it will be a testament to our strength and resilience. Until I return, remember: there are No Comparisons. 🏹🏹"
It seems like such an odd thing to say, but there were many reasons why the Bears' season fell apart. Then again, he might believe his presence alone might've nudged the pendulum in their favor in some of those close games they lost.
Jaquan Brisker, as a leader, can't be understated.
His ability to see what is happening is a great strength. It probably isn't a coincidence the run defense started falling apart after he went down. Brisker was a big part of their success on that front. One should ask these questions.
How would the Hail Mary have gone in Washington if he'd been on the field?
Does Green Bay get that late touchdown to escape at Soldier Field?
Do the Vikings drive so easily down the field in overtime?
Does Detroit rush for 194 yards in the Thanksgiving game?
Jaquan Brisker clearly believes he could've changed those outcomes. One thing is clear. He was off to the best start of his career last season. In five games, he had 40 tackles, a sack, an interception, and a forced fumble. Brian Urlacher always said the true lynchpin of those Bears defenses in the 2000s was safety Mike Brown. His ability to diagnose what offenses were doing and his versatility to counter them were so underrated. Brisker is much the same way. Hopefully, he can show everybody what they missed.
