Eddie Jackson will be the best Chicago Bears’ rookie in 2017

Earlier today I shared SB Nation’s thoughts on Chicago Bears’ rookie Adam Shaheen, and the possibility he could end up as the Bears starting tight end.

Also earlier today, Sam went over his impact picks for the Bears’ rookie class.

Last week EJ and myself, gave our favorite and least favorite of the Bears’ draft picks.

And we even polled you guys, asking which of Chicago’s rookie class is your favorite.

Early this morning, ESPN gave their take on which player will be the best rookie for all 32 teams in 2017, and I agree completely on their their pick for the Bears. ESPN Bears’ beat reporter, Jeff Dickerson, gave the nod to Alabama safety, Eddie Jackson, who was Chicago’s first 4th round draft pick.

“There isn't an obvious answer here. The Bears drafted three players from below the FBS level and a quarterback who isn't expected to play in 2017. Chicago's front office probably feels Division II tight end Adam Shaheen is the most likely to contribute, but Jackson -- coming off a broken leg at Alabama -- fills an immediate need on special teams.”

When he was healthy, Jackson was an electric returner for the Crimson Tide, averaging 23.0 yards per punt return with two touchdowns last year. He also had three interception returns for touchdowns in his career.

Dickerson continued, “The Bears are desperate for positive plays in the return game, and Jackson might provide that if he's healthy. Chicago also wants better safety play alongside veteran free-agent pickup Quintin Demps. To win a job on defense, Jackson needs to beat several safeties already on the roster, but the free safety position is wide open.”

I think part of the reason Demps was brought to Chicago was to help mentor a young safety, and a pairing of he and Jackson is an interesting, and complimentary skill set for the back end of Chicago's defense.