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In a surprising yet strategic move, the Los Angeles Rams have agreed to trade offensive lineman Jonah Jackson to the Chicago Bears. This trade not only marks a significant shift in Jackson's career but also addresses the Bears' pressing need for offensive line stability ahead of the upcoming NFL season.
Jackson, who was signed by the Rams last year for a hefty three-year, $51 million deal, struggled to find his footing in Los Angeles. After suffering a shoulder injury early in the season, he found himself benched, a move that indicated the Rams' desire to maintain consistency along their offensive line. Despite being a former Pro Bowler, Jackson only managed to participate in four games during his time with the Rams. Now, with the trade impending as the new league year approaches, both teams are gearing up for what could be a pivotal change.
But what does this trade really mean for the Bears?
The Chicago Bears, under the direction of head coach Ben Johnson, aim to fortify their offensive line ahead of the 2025 season. Johnson, who previously worked with Jackson during his time with the Lions, will understand Jackson’s capabilities and how to maximize his strengths. Bringing Jackson back to the NFC North provides the Bears with an experienced lineman who has the potential to return to form, especially in an environment where he is familiar with the system.
Jackson’s career trajectory has had its ups and downs. Selected in the third round of the 2020 draft by the Detroit Lions, he made an immediate impact, starting 16 games in his sophomore season, which earned him a Pro Bowl selection. However, the last two seasons have been plagued with injuries. In 2023, he missed five games, and in 2022, four games. The pressing question now looms: Will the Bears receive a healthy Jonah Jackson?
Chicago’s offensive line has been a point of concern, and Jackson's arrival could bolster that unit significantly. The Bears will need to ensure that Jackson is not only physically capable of performing but also in sync with the team's offensive strategies. The key will be to monitor his rehabilitation and acclimation back into a starting role.
Financially, this trade seems to be beneficial for both teams. While the Rams take on $11.3 million in dead money from the trade, they also save $3.3 million against the cap, allowing them to refocus their finances. For the Bears, they inherit Jackson’s full contract, which means they will pay him $17.5 million in 2025. This investment will be scrutinized, but if Jackson can return to his previous form, it could prove to be a worthwhile gamble.
As the league year opens on March 12, the trade will become official, and both the Rams and Bears will have their sights set on the future. The Rams will look to build a resilient offensive line through new acquisitions, while the Bears hope Jonah Jackson will be the piece that stabilizes their line and enhances their offensive production.
The NFL landscape is always shifting, and this trade could have significant ramifications for both franchises as they navigate their paths to success in the upcoming seasons.
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