Eddie Jackson on joining Ravens, reuniting with Roquan Smith: 'It just felt like a perfect fit'

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Eddie Jackson‘s arrival in Baltimore provides great depth for a talented Ravens secondary and places the veteran safety on a perennial contender.

That’s why, on Monday, the ex-All-Pro termed it a “perfect fit” during his first media interaction as a Raven.

Jackson conveyed to journalists, “It seemed like an ideal match. Being aware of what this establishment offers, their traditions and all, it’s the perfect environment for me to step in, compete, and contribute towards the team’s improvement and, hopefully, a Super Bowl victory.”

Baltimore is a perfect fit in more ways than one for Jackson. The 30-year-old has close relationships with several of his new Ravens teammates, including quarterback Lamar Jackson, who he lived near and played youth football with in Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., as well as running back Derrick Henry and cornerback Marlon Humphrey, former college teammates of Eddie Jackson at Alabama where they all won a national championship in 2015.

But perhaps the most impactful relationship of them all is with the ringleader of the Ravens’ vaunted defense, Roquan Smith, who Jackson played with for a majority of his seven-year tenure with the Bears.

“Man, it’s a blast. I spent five years playing with Ro,” Jackson shared. “Understanding his mindset, seeing him out there darting about, making moves, eager to shoulder the responsibility, wanting everyone to emulate him and his game play, it’s truly something extraordinary. The reunion is definitely thrilling.”

In 2018, under Smith’s leadership of the Bears defense, Jackson had his most successful season to date. The vigilant safety generated six interceptions, 15 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and a sack. He also scored three defensive touchdowns (two from interceptions, one from a fumble recovery), leading to his sole All-Pro recognition.

After his career year, Jackson made another Pro Bowl trip in 2019. However, he struggled to maintain his form over the next few seasons due to the Bears team’s rebuild. He managed to return to his usual performance in 2022, but foot injuries affected each of the last two seasons. As part of its ongoing roster overhaul, Chicago released Jackson.

Where Jackson fits on a Ravens secondary that features Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams remains to be seen. During his second training camp practice on Monday, Jackson has already flashed his play-making capabilities by scoring on a pick-six, according to the team.

Baltimore has historically been a successful place for defensive veterans to flourish. Jackson aspires to be the next in line as the Ravens aim to cross the threshold in 2024.

“He mentioned the team’s roster, their record, and the accomplishments they’ve made in recent years, including their near success last year,” he said. “He expressed his aim to be the missing element in the defense, contributing in any possible way to help the team achieve a Super Bowl victory.