The Chicago Bears knew what they were asking of Tyrique Stevenson when the season began. It’s never ideal to start a rookie, especially at such a challenging position like cornerback. Opposing quarterbacks would go after him constantly, knowing their more experienced wide receivers would have matchup advantages. It would take lots of hard work and mental fortitude for Stevenson to survive the onslaught. Predictably, it hasn’t been easy. Opponents have targeted him 48 times already this season, more than any rookie defensive back in the league. He’s allowed five touchdowns in that span, though most of them were contested.
However, something has become noticeable over the past three games. It’s getting harder for teams to get away with going after him. After no passes defended over his first four games, Stevenson now has five in the past three. Where it gets better is what he’s been doing when matched up against some of the best in the league.
- Terry McLaurin: 1 catch on 2 targets for 32 yards
- Jordan Addison: 2 catches on 4 targets for 25 yards and 1 TD with one pass breakup
- Davante Adams: 5 catches on 9 targets for 49 yards with two pass breakups
Most people will say that isn’t good. Don’t forget Mike Evans abused him for 122 yards and a touchdown on four targets in Week 2. So for Stevenson to give up fewer yards on more than tripled the targets against two Pro Bowlers and a 1st round pick is a big step in the right direction.
Tyrique Stevenson is improving without much help.
Cornerbacks are at the mercy of what their defensive line can do up front. If they can’t get regular pressure on the quarterback, it’s hard to cover in this league. The rookie has faced this problem all season. Chicago is second-to-last in the NFL with only ten sacks in seven games. That puts all the responsibility on the corners to prevent completions. It’s anything but easy. To his credit, Stevenson hasn’t complained. He works hard on every snap to do his job. Results are starting to show.
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There will be more bumps along the way. That is inevitable for rookies, especially on a team that is still rebuilding. Still, GM Ryan Poles deserves some credit. He is the one who traded up in the 2nd round to acquire Tyrique Stevenson. It was a questionable move to some. Many felt the Miami product had potential but also some notable flaws. The Bears brass didn’t care. They felt with the right coaching and some patience, the kid had enough ability to be a quality player. Those assumptions are looking good.
