If there’s one thing Chicago Bears fans have learned over the past four years, it’s that Vic Fangio is never a boring quote. The guy doesn’t beat around the bush. He seems to take that George Patton moniker to heart. “Give it to ’em loud and dirty. That way they’ll remember it.” He’s up front and often blunt with his answers. That’s why fans and reporters alike love him.
He was in top form again during his press conference during team OTAs. Most of his answers were of the typical ilk. He provided an update on Leonard Floyd who is expected to return by training camp. At the same time, Fangio offered what could be called a lukewarm assessment of the current group of pass rushers.
On Roquan Smith he made it clear that the rookie will not be handed the starting job. He’ll have to earn it but admitted he was immediately taken by the young linebacker’s speed and intelligence. However, it was when he began to talk about players who’ve impressed him so far in practices that he delivered a surprising nugget.
Vic Fangio has taken notice of safety Deon Bush
The quote came when the conversation centered around the rookie class. Fangio understood why people wanted to talk about them but he was quick to remind everyone that a number of the veterans were coming along as well. He singled out Danny Trevathan above all. Last season the linebacker didn’t participate much in camps or preseason and Fangio feels that hampered his performance in 2017. This time around he’s getting solid work in.
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Then, out of the blue, he dropped a second name.
Fangio sounds especially encouraged having Danny Trevathan available for OTAs, something that didn't happen in 2017. Feels that set him back.
Also singled out Deon Bush as somebody who looks improved.#Bears
— Erik Lambert (@ErikLambert1) May 30, 2018
Now there’s a name most people never would’ve expected to hear again. Deon Bush was starting to look like a lost cause. The former fourth round pick out of Miami in 2016 was considered a project. He had plenty of raw talent but suffered from several issues with his fundamentals and his awareness. Many weren’t sure if he’d ever get it figured out.
The past two years haven’t done much to change that. In 24 games Bush has 24 tackles and a pass defense. He’s yet to make any significant impact plays. It didn’t seem like his roster spot was assured this year. Based on what Fangio is saying the 24-year old safety has made significant strides since the end of last season.
Keep in mind this man doesn’t throw around compliments often. So for him to single out Bush like that is significant, and all the more reason to want training camp and preseason to get here faster.
