Matt Eberflus has said that for the Chicago Bears to regain their place among the NFL’s best, everybody in the organization must be held to a high standard. There can be zero exceptions. If somebody isn’t doing their job according to that standard, they better not expect to be around long. Even two of his assistant coaches found that out when they were dismissed for poor conduct. Another person who found this lesson out the hard way was cornerback Tyrique Stevenson.
The former 2nd round pick had an outstanding rookie season with four interceptions. However, he came dangerously close to not seeing the field at all. Stevenson appeared on the Flo Factory podcast to talk about his college career at Miami and his rookie season with the Bears. It was there he made a surprising admission. His practice reps were suddenly cut at one point leading up to the season. He found out it was because he wasn’t running to the ball on every play, taking too many reps at half speed.
It was a cold reminder that Eberflus and the coaches were always watching, and nothing less than maximum effort would be tolerated.
Tyrique Stevenson got the message.
He may not have liked how things were handled, but he can’t argue with the result. Eberflus reminded him that draft status won’t protect you for long on this team. If you’re not playing with the necessary effort and intensity in line with the H.I.T.S principle, the Bears will find somebody who can. Stevenson quickly adjusted his practice style and regained the starting job in short order. That carried into the season, where he overcame a sluggish start and had a great year.
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This is a good reminder that Eberflus knows what he’s doing. He has a clear vision for how to handle this team. When everybody gets held to a high standard, it forces everybody to step up or get left behind. By voluntarily demoting a high draft choice, one you actually traded up to get, it likely sent a small shockwave through the locker room. Let up at your own risk. Tyrique Stevenson didn’t need more than one reminder of this, which speaks to his willingness to embrace the team’s culture.
As much as I like OT, Darnell Wright — this guy, CB, Tyrique Stevenson might be the best draft pick (even as a trade up) GM, Ryan Poles has ever made.
Stevenson plays the game on the “razor edge” of his physical talent — and manages to win most of his “gambles” (at least the ones that are allowed within Matt Eberflus’ HITS system).
The question I have, is whether Flus will still be handing out “loaf” cards?
The HITS principle keeps it objective. It helps not lose the locker room while also holding players accountable. It keeps Eberflus from being the bad guy, even though he has a beard.
When you are making good money and you possess any pride, then run full speed to the ball. There is no rationale to be lazy. Do not desire to be the exception in a poor way. Influence other players in a positive way. Be a team player.