Bears Rookie Safety Eddie Jackson Named NFC Defensive Player Of The Week

By Chris Emma--

(CBS) After a performance that set a record, Bears safety Eddie Jackson has been named NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

Jackson became the first player in NFL history with two defensive return touchdowns of 75 yards or more in a single game, the difference in the Bears' 17-3 win against the Panthers on Sunday.

In the first quarter, Jackson scooped up a loose pitch from Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and returned it 75 yards for the score. In the second quarter, a Newton pass to Kelvin Benjamin was deflected to the hands of Jackson, who returned it 76 yards to the end zone.

A fourth-round pick in the NFL Draft in April, Jackson had his big day exactly one year from breaking his left leg at Alabama. He's the Bears' first nominee for NFC Defensive Player of the Week since Akiem Hicks earned the honor in Week 14 of last season and the first rookie since Kyle Fuller during Week 2 of 2014.

The Bears (3-4) play at the Saints (4-2) on Sunday, looking to reach .500 before the bye.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.