In the Chicago Bears’ 20-17 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the playoffs, safety Jaquan Brisker was a bright spot on the Bears’ defense.
The 26-year-old was everywhere on the field, finishing the game with eight tackles, six assists, and one sack. There was even one drive where Brisker did everything himself:
- 1st down: Matthew Stafford sacked by Brisker
- 2nd down: Kyren Williams tackled by Brisker
- 3rd down: Stafford pass broken up by Brisker
And despite the loss, Brisker made sure to send love to his teammates, coaches, and the city of Chicago:
“These teammates, you know, we’re all not gonna be here again. Team’s gonna look different. It’s sad because this was a special group. I really care about my teammates and my coaches and things like that. I care about this city, and who knows what’s next.”
It really was a special group, and, sadly, there will be players who won’t be on the roster next season…and Brisker might be one of those players. He’s set to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, hence why he said “who knows what’s next.” However, he made his feelings clear on where he wants to play next season.
Jaquan Brisker Comments on Free Agency
Brisker, who was general manager Ryan Poles’ second-ever draft selection as the Bears GM, has racked up 342 total tackles, seven sacks, and four interceptions in 52 regular season games with the Bears.
As for where he wants to play next season, Brisker said he hopes to be back next season. He’s not sure if the Bears want him back, but if they do, he’ll be more than happy to stay.
There are mixed feelings from fans. When he’s on the field, Brisker brings the energy and hard-hitting mindset. However, he’s been diagnosed with a concussion in each of his first three seasons in the NFL, which is a cause for concern.
The Bears are also towards the bottom of the NFL in available cap space at negative $4.3 million, according to Over the Cap. It would be nice to have Brisker back next year, but the Bears will have to get creative to hand him another contract.
Brisker on the Overtime Loss to the Rams, Season Accomplishments
It was a tough way to lose the game, especially after Caleb Williams had that unreal touchdown pass to tight end Cole Kmet to send the game to OT, with Brisker adding that the loss “stung.”
“I know we worked so hard for this. To get in here, play a home game in Chicago, and you know, it stung.”
Brisker was then asked if there would be a point where he would look back on the season and reflect on the good that the team was able to accomplish.
“I mean, yeah, we won the NFC North. Tried to get the number one seed, ended up being the number two seed. Got a couple home [playoff] games here. Like you said, no one expected us to be here, but we did…and the losing part is tough, and obviously the splitting part is going to be tough.
No matter what happens, Brisker has made a strong impression in what could be his final game as a Bear.
Bears’ Jaquan Brisker Makes His Feelings Clear on Free Agency