During the Chicago Bears‘ win over the Carolina Panthers on October 5th, safety Jaquan Brisker violently collided with tight end Tommy Tremble. Both came out of the game with concussions. Brisker was expected to miss about a week or two, which is typical for such an injury. It has now been a month and a half, and the Bears safety still hasn’t returned. He’s not going to either. The team announced that he is going on Injured Reserve, meaning he is out for at least the next month. At this point, it wouldn’t be surprising if he is done for the year.
In the short term, this is a tough blow for the Bears’ defense. Brisker is a key part of their success thanks to his versatility as a run and pass defender. His instincts and physicality were always impossible to miss. From a long-term perspective, it is becoming clear the safety faces the very real prospect of an early retirement. This is his third concussion in as many seasons since entering the NFL. The fact he still hasn’t fully recovered suggests it is far more serious than common such injuries. Other players with similar issues have been forced to retire early. Luke Kuechly is one example.
The Bears have to think about life after Jaquan Brisker.
It sucks. Nobody in that building wants to admit it, but that is the truth. The former 2nd round pick has one year left on his rookie contract. There is no way GM Ryan Poles can justify signing him to an extension with this new development. It would be way too big of a risk. Jaquan Brisker may want to keep playing, which is his prerogative, but the Bears have to be the responsible party here. As he contemplates his future, they must start making preparations to find a replacement this coming off-season. They have plenty of resources to make it happen. Over $70 million in cap space. Four picks in the first three rounds. It is cold and calculated, but that is the business of pro sports.
I’ve had a couple concussions in high school and a major head injury in college; I’d say walk away while you can. God Bless him & his loved ones!
Just the intensity of that hit is hard to watch. At full speed it seemed Brisker had caused the head on collision. Clearly the tight end doesn’t know how to protect himself. Brisker was basically dropping to a knee to wrap him up leading with his shoulder. Dude speared him in the side of the head. I’m suprised Brisker walked away from that so easily. Either way it sucks because I really like Brisker. I sincerely hope he considers his future health. It might be time to walk away. It really sucks he’s only been in the NFL just 3… Read more »
As much as it sucks for him and the team, it looks like early retirement is his best option. Health is more important.
Hoping for the best for you and your loved ones, Mr. Brisker. If you were my son or brother I’d want you to retire. You have your whole life ahead of you, do it with your cognitive processes intact.
Retire. No sport and no salary is worth the life long affects. Not worth the risk. Wishing you well Mr. Brisker 🙏