Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles addressed two important needs in the 2022 NFL draft: secondary and offensive line, which were notable weaknesses on last year’s roster.
In fact, Poles used both second-round picks on defense with the selections of cornerback Kyler Gordon (39th overall) and safety Jaquan Brisker (48th overall). Gordon and Brisker provide an immediate upgrade at defensive back and are expected to start as rookies.
While there’s plenty to love about both Gordon and Brisker, ESPN’s Matt Bowen believes Brisker is the perfect fit for Chicago’s defense.
Brisker is a classic fit for Matt Eberflus’ scheme in Chicago as a defender with multidimensional traits. His play style reminds me of Bills safety Micah Hyde. With a smooth pedal, split-field range and easy transition ability, Brisker can drive downhill on the ball from the deep half or match vertically in Quarters. When the Bears do play their single-high schemes, look for Brisker to rotate down, tracking the ball in the run game or lurking underneath in coverage. A highly instinctive player with disruptive traits, Brisker will pair with safety Eddie Jackson in the Bears’ heavily defined system.
Brisker is a versatile defensive back with the potential to play both safety spots, but he’ll serve as a strong safety alongside Eddie Jackson. He’s a hard hitter and will bring toughness to the defensive backfield.
Brisker has the potential to develop into a playmaker at strong safety, but he was also extremely disciplined during his collegiate career. According to the Athletic‘s Dane Brugler, Brisker didn’t commit a penalty in his last two seasons at Penn State.
When all is said and done, Brisker could wind up being a steal and the Bears’ top draft pick from this 2022 rookie class.
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