Week one of the National Football League should provide both intriguing matchups and a wonderful reunion for University of Alabama standouts this weekend.
One of the Bama on Bama crime meetings will occur between the Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears, which features wide receiver Julio Jones and safety Eddie Jackson. While Jones is already a solidified name, Jackson is expected to start his first game as a rookie. The fourth-round pick of this year’s NFL Draft has been very impressive thus far according to the Bears’ coaching staff.
Per a report from Larry Meyer of chicagobears.com., Jackson ball skills, instincts, athleticism and overall knowledge on defense has led to head coach John Fox starting him at safety.
Hailing from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., the once four-star prospect from Alabama’s 2013 recruiting class excelled during Bears’ training camp — as he recorded multiple interceptions. Before getting selected in the draft, Jackson totaled nine career picks (three for touchdowns), two punt return scores and 130 tackles for the Crimson Tide.
Despite missing much of the 2016 season with a broken leg, he was a part of three consecutive Southeastern Conference championships (2014-16) and a national championship in 2015.
Jackson will start alongside veteran safety, Quintin Demps.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
