Joint practices are a great opportunity for two teams to prepare their players for game-like conditions. It’s why Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus wanted them this month. It is a great evaluation tool for him and his staff while serving as a perfect learning experience for young players on the roster. If guys wanted to make a statement, this was the time to do so. By all accounts, the Bears came out with tons of effort and intensity on Wednesday, showcasing why they’re going to be a handful for opponents this year. None more so than Tyrique Stevenson.
The 2nd round pick was one of the stars of last Saturday’s preseason victory over the Tennessee Titans. He finished with a team-high seven tackles, one for a loss, and had a great pass breakup that should’ve been an interception. What stood out most was his physical intensity. The guy loves to hit. Indianapolis was the next team to find that out, as reports from practice indicate the rookie cornerback was mixing it up with guys all day on both defense and special teams.
Tyrique Stevenson embodies everything the Bears want.
He’s big, physical, and athletic. His nose for the football is apparent constantly, and there doesn’t seem to be an off switch for his engine. The guy goes 100 mph on every snap. It doesn’t matter who he hits. His job is to let everybody know he’ll be there all day. Get ready for war. Players like him often earn the label of “pest.” That is fine. Every good defense has at least one of these types. Stevenson doesn’t seem to mind filling that role. His teammates are loving every second of it.
That antagonistic mentality figures to serve him well this year. Tyrique Stevenson will have his down periods. That is the nature of most rookies in the NFL. Moments are coming when more seasoned receivers will give him an education. Still, it seems he has the swagger and mental toughness necessary to persevere. He has a great support structure around him. Jon Hoke is a veteran secondary coach going back years. Defensive coordinator Alan Williams is also a defensive backs expert. They will know exactly how to mold this young man into a force.
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JT O’Sullivan. Good one peanut. 🙂
Bring the hit stick bro! Keep your head on a swivel too. Dudes will look to cheap shot ya!
Love hearing about new guys bringing it during practice.
FootballAtArlington1 —
Fire up your Google machine and type in:
The QB School reviews Justin Fields’ preseason performance
There, J.T. ‘O’Sullivan will teach you a few things about playing quarterback in the NFL.
You’re welcome!