The Chicago Bears took to the field for their first week of voluntary OTA practices this week, which marked the return of fourth-year safety Jaquan Brisker, who missed most of last season.
Brisker suffered a concussion in a Week 5 game against the Carolina Panthers, which marked his third concussion in as many seasons. He missed the rest of the season, as the team played it safe with the veteran’s health, and it was a big blow to Chicago’s defense.
As the Bears begin a new chapter under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, veteran safety Kevin Byard is thrilled to have his running mate back in action and ready to contribute in Dennis Allen’s defense.
“It was fun,” Byard said. “I think just that whole ordeal last year with him and the concussion, from a player and a brother, looking at him seeing what he went through. I know that was tough for him. He’s excited. I’m excited to be able to get him back out there. I know he has a lot of plays that he wants to go out there and make this year, and I’m excited to watch him do it.”
Brisker is entering the final year of his rookie deal, where he’s got plenty to prove if he wants to ink a contract extension like his fellow draft mate cornerback Kyler Gordon, who had a nice pay day this offseason. There’s no denying Brisker’s impact on this defense with his physical style of play. But he’s yet to play a full season, and he’ll need to stay healthy if he hopes to stick around in Chicago.
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