Chicago Bears linebacker D’Marco Jackson has been named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week following an impressive performance during the team’s 31-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns on December 14, 2025. Jackson’s standout game included seven tackles, two passes defended, one sack, and an interception, making him the only player in the NFC to achieve such statistics in a game this season.
In a press conference held at Halas Hall, Jackson expressed his emotions upon receiving the honor. “So (we) broke down practice yesterday, and Coach (Ben) Johnson had just told us the NFC defensive player was me, and I was just filled with a bunch of emotions,” he stated. Reflecting on his journey from high school to college and the challenges he has faced, he remarked, “It’s just been a roller coaster… Just to finally hear that it was just something like a deep reflection.”
A Rapid Ascent to Recognition
The achievement marks a significant milestone for Jackson, who is the fourth Bear to secure a player of the week title this season. He joins teammates such as quarterback Caleb Williams, who threw for 298 yards and four touchdowns against the Dallas Cowboys, special teamer Josh Blackwell, and tight end Colston Loveland, who made a critical touchdown catch against the Cincinnati Bengals. Jackson’s recognition is particularly noteworthy as he becomes the first Bears linebacker to earn this accolade since Danny Trevathan in Week 2 of 2018.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen praised Jackson’s performance, saying, “He’s played well for us, whatever it has been, the last three, four weeks. It’s a credit to him, and it’s a credit to those assistant coaches who have been able to get those guys ready.”
Jackson joined the Bears after being waived by the New Orleans Saints on August 26, 2022, where he had been drafted in the fifth round the previous year. His time with the Saints was hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 10 games. “It was unexpected. It put me down,” Jackson shared regarding his release from New Orleans. “But then when Chicago called and said they were claiming me, I just felt like it was a new path and like a new journey for me.”
Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
Initially starting the season primarily as a special teams player, Jackson’s role shifted dramatically due to injuries within the linebacking corps, including to Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards. He has risen to the occasion, particularly in Week 12, when he made his first career start against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In that game, he led all players with 15 tackles while playing a season-high 69 snaps, earning a game ball for his performance.
Jackson’s journey has not been without its challenges, as he acknowledged the long path he traveled, often focusing on special teams. “Every kid, you want to get out there and just go straight to defense… But honestly, it was just a long special teams road for me,” he explained. His dedication and hard work paid off, as he finally received the opportunity to execute his skills on defense.
Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower commended Jackson’s work ethic, stating, “I’ve always thought very fondly of D-Jack… The room is proud of him. You should have seen the team today when they announced it. Everybody was just so fired up for him because they know the journey.”
As Jackson continues to build on his success, his story serves as an inspiration to teammates and fans alike, demonstrating that perseverance and readiness can lead to remarkable achievements in professional sports. The Bears look forward to Jackson’s continued contributions as they navigate the remainder of the season.
