Eddie Jackson NFL Draft 2017: Scouting Report for Chicago Bears' Pick

Measurables

Height	Weight	40 Time	3-Cone	Short Shuttle
6'0"	201 lbs	N/A	N/A	N/A

POSITIVES

A starter in each of the last four seasons at Alabama, Eddie Jackson has experience at cornerback and free safety. In 2015, he grabbed six interceptions and has the range to play over the top. A true deep safety, Jackson is comfortable in space and has the speed and agility to track the ball. He has shown natural athleticism and can run with NFL talent. As a return man and special teams player, Jackson has pro skills and can get on the field immediately as a punt returner. He has good instincts and play recognition when the ball is in front of him. He has the reaction time and the closing speed to get to the pigskin and break plays up.

NEGATIVES

A broken leg suffered midway through the 2016 season shut down Jackson. He hasn't been able to perform in any agility or speed work since. Jackson was on a defense loaded with NFL talent and a great scheme, which overinflated his value and his production. His instincts when asked to cover and read the offense are below average. He's a center fielder chasing fly balls. Jackson is a finesse player without great physicality at the point of attack and has little interest in getting physical with blockers or ball-carriers. He tore his ACL in the spring of 2014 but played 11 games after returning.
  

PRO COMPARISON: Will Blackmon, Washington

FINAL GRADE: 5.50/9.00 (Backup Caliber—Round 6)

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