The Chicago Bears are expected to enter the market for a starting safety when the free agency period begins. General manager Ryan Poles released Eddie Jackson from his contract earlier this offseason in a move that created an additional $12.56 million in cap space. Jackson's release was a no-brainer given the savings, but his departure creates a sizable hole opposite Jaquan Brisker. Jackson played 645 snaps in the defensive backfield last season, accounting for more than 60% of all Bears plays on defense.
We've identified three potential replacements for Jackson in free agency.
KEVIN BYARD
The Philadelphia Eagles released Kevin Byard from his contract last week after acquiring him in a midseason trade with the Tennessee Titans. The aging Byard appeared to be past his prime, but it's worth noting the Eagles had massive issues across the entire secondary. Controversy at defensive coordinator saw Matt Patricia replace Sean Desai as the de-facto DC and play-caller in-season.
Byard would encounter a significantly more formidable position partner in Brisker. A change of scenery could help Byard recapture his All-Pro form. Poles could double down by signing Byard and drafting a safety in the third or fourth round. The veteran safety would be an ideal stopgap option while simultaneously developing a mid-round selection.
TAYLOR RAPP
Taylor Rapp thrived in 2023 after signing a one-year prove-it deal with the Buffalo Bills. The versatile Rapp played 42% of all Bills defensive plays, and also chipped in with nearly 200 special teams snaps, making an impact in the third-phase game. Pro Football Focus credited Rapp with allowing just 61.1% of targets thrown his way to be converted into completions, marking a career-high output. Rapp also totaled 50 tackles and only allowed one touchdown pass as the main coverage defender.
New Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington was present for Rapp's ascension. Washington spent the 2023 campaign as the Bills' assistant head coach and defensive line position coach. Familiarity could bring Rapp to Chicago.
JULIAN BLACKMON
Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon is an extremely versatile defender that's logged more than 350 snaps in the slot from 2022 onward. Blackmon is also capable of playing as a single-high safety, and actually played cornerback at Utah in college. This past season, Blackmon looked comfortable playing downhill at the line of scrimmage more frequently. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus spent two seasons (2020-21) as Blackmon's defensive coordinator in Indianapolis.