The Chicago Bears wrapped up Day 2 of their minicamp this week, and intensity continues to rise as players compete under the direction of new head coach Ben Johnson. Both sides of the ball delivered solid performances, showcasing growing cohesion and energy. However, amid all the buzz of position battles and tactical adjustments, it was the return of a familiar and highly anticipated player that stole the spotlight.
Safety Jaquan Brisker made his return to the practice field after a challenging 2023 season that saw him sidelined for the majority of the year. Brisker, now entering his third NFL season, missed 11 games last season following a significant concussion suffered in Week 5 during a game against the Carolina Panthers. His presence at minicamp was immediately felt—not just as a player but as a tone-setter for the defense.
Video highlights from the team’s media outlet, Bears on CHSN, captured Brisker’s return, and he elaborated on his long recovery journey during a press conference afterward. Reflecting on his time away from the field, Brisker admitted the absence from football took a heavy emotional toll. “Being away from the game week to week was mentally draining,” he said. “It got depressing at times. But I’ve worked through it, and I’m just happy to be back.”
Importantly, Brisker emphasized that he does not intend to change his physical, hard-hitting style of play despite the nature of the injury. The 26-year-old explained the concussion was classified as vestibular—affecting his balance and spatial awareness. Recovery involved specialized rehabilitation focused on retraining his nervous system, including drills like catching tennis balls and lateral movement exercises. “It was really about getting my nervous system aligned again,” he shared.
Although this was his third documented concussion in as many seasons, Brisker affirmed that stepping away from football was never considered. His passion for the game remains strong, and he is determined to contribute at a high level. Before his injury in 2023, he had accumulated 105 total tackles, nine pass deflections, and two forced fumbles—making him one of the Bears’ standout defenders.
Now that he’s back on the field, his return offers not only a morale boost but also a strategic asset for a Chicago defense looking to reestablish its identity. If Brisker can stay healthy, he may prove to be a key anchor in the secondary and a difference-maker in the team’s climb toward contention.
