Jaquan Brisker Delivers Statement Game in Potential Bears Farewell
The Chicago Bears’ storybook 2025 season came to a halt Sunday night, falling just short in a 20-17 Divisional Round loss to the Los Angeles Rams. But while the team’s playoff run ended in heartbreak, safety Jaquan Brisker may have turned in a performance that will be remembered well beyond this postseason - both for what it meant in the moment and what it might mean for his future.
Brisker, who’s set to hit free agency in March, didn’t just show up - he showed out. He led the Bears with 14 total tackles, added a sack, and broke up two passes, putting together a complete performance that could have a major impact on his next contract. And if this was indeed his final game in a Bears uniform, he made sure it was one to remember.
A One-Man Wrecking Crew
It wasn’t just the numbers - it was when and how Brisker made his presence felt. In the second quarter, he strung together a three-play sequence that could serve as a highlight reel for any safety looking to get paid.
First, he brought down Matthew Stafford for a sack on first down. Then, he stuffed Kyren Williams after a modest gain.
Finally, he closed the series by breaking up a pass intended for Puka Nacua, forcing the Rams to punt.
That kind of impact - three consecutive plays, three different responsibilities, all executed at a high level - is what separates good safeties from game-changers. And Brisker was a game-changer Sunday night.
Pro Football Focus took notice too, grading him at 78.9, the second-highest mark among Bears defensive backs behind only Kevin Byard (79.6). Brisker’s versatility was on full display - he wasn’t just active in coverage, he was a force against the run, racking up five run stops and consistently flying to the ball.
A Price Tag on the Rise
Brisker came into the postseason with a projected market value of around $10 million per year, according to Spotrac. That number likely climbed after his performance against the Rams - and it wasn’t just a one-game flash. He also played a key role in the Wild Card win over the Packers, tallying nine total tackles, five of them solo, and helping shut down Green Bay’s offense in crunch time.
Two playoff games. Twenty-three total tackles.
A sack. Multiple pass breakups.
And a clear message to the rest of the league: Jaquan Brisker is ready to be paid like a top-tier safety.
The Bears’ Dilemma
The problem for Chicago? They may not be able to afford to keep him.
Kevin Byard, who turned in an All-Pro season, is likely a top priority for GM Ryan Poles. Spotrac estimates Byard’s market value at $7.8 million per year - less than what Brisker could command. And in today’s NFL, paying two safeties top dollar isn’t exactly a common strategy.
Brisker seemed to understand the writing on the wall when he spoke to reporters after the game.
“It’s sad because this was a special group,” he said. “I really care about my teammates and my coaches...
I care about the city. You know, who knows what’s next?”
It was an emotional moment, and a telling one. Brisker’s connection to Chicago is real, but so is the business side of football. And with his stock soaring, he may have priced himself out of the Bears’ plans - even if his performance made it harder to say goodbye.
What Comes Next
If Sunday was Brisker’s last game in a Bears uniform, he left everything on the field. His performance was a reminder of what he brings to a defense - leadership, physicality, and the ability to change a game in an instant.
For the Bears, it’s a tough situation. Letting a homegrown talent walk is never easy, especially one who’s grown into a cornerstone on defense. But with limited cap space and other priorities on the roster, tough decisions are coming.
For Brisker, the future looks bright - and lucrative. He’s shown he can shine on the biggest stage, and that’s exactly what teams will pay for in March.
The Bears’ playoff run may be over, but Jaquan Brisker’s next chapter is just beginning.