Former Ohio State star and Los Angeles Rams offensive lineman Jonah Jackson has been traded to the Chicago Bears in a surprising move. The deal, which was first reported by ESPN’s Courtney Cronin, sent Jackson packing for a sixth-round draft pick.
Jackson was expected to be a key contributor to the Rams’ offense, but his rookie season was marred by injuries and positional changes. A fractured skull injury knocked him out of his debut campaign after just two games, and he was subsequently benched after returning in Week 10. He appeared in only four games during the 2024 NFL season.
The move marks a low-risk, potentially high-reward deal for the Bears, who are looking to bolster their roster. With $17 million of Jackson’s salary not guaranteed, the trade presents an opportunity for Chicago to pick up a talented player at a reduced cost.
Jackson had a standout year at Ohio State in 2019, earning All-Big Ten honors after transferring from Rutgers. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, but struggled to find his footing in the NFL before landing with the Rams.
The trade gives Jackson a chance to return to his natural position as a guard, which may help him bounce back from a disappointing rookie season. With the Bears’ expansive cap room this offseason, Chicago will likely be looking to make more moves to further strengthen their roster.
Source: https://www.si.com/college/ohiostate/news/former-ohio-state-buckeyes-jonah-jackson-traded-stunning-nfl-deal