How Bears CB Tyrique Stevenson can make an instant impact as rookie
The Chicago Bears added a unique talent in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft by selecting CB Tyrique Stevenson out of Miami with the No. 56 overall pick. Stevenson checks in at 6’0”, 198lbs. and plays the cornerback position with a physical edge. Not only does he bring an element of physicality to […]
The Chicago Bears added a unique talent in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft by selecting CB Tyrique Stevenson out of Miami with the No. 56 overall pick.
Stevenson checks in at 6’0”, 198lbs. and plays the cornerback position with a physical edge. Not only does he bring an element of physicality to the Bears defensive backfield, but he also had plenty of success in man coverage during his time in college.
Having initially played for the Georgia Bulldogs, Stevenson transferred to Miami following the 2020 season. Playing behind plenty of NFL talents at Georgia, Stevenson became frustrated with his role within the defense as head coach Kirby Smart preferred him in the slot.
At Miami, Stevenson was allowed to play on the outside against some of the ACC’s elite wide receivers. It was there where he allowed a 47.2% completion percentage from 2021-2022, which was the fifth-best in that timeframe, according to Pro Football Focus.
Stevenson did struggle in zone coverage, which is something he’ll have to improve in order to earn a primary role in the Bears secondary. Head coach Matt Eberflus’ calling card features zone defense, though the team frequently operated in man coverage down the stretch in 2022.
He joins a competitive group at the cornerback position featuring Kyler Gordon, Jaylon Johnson, Jaylon Jones and Kindle Vildor among others. Though he still has room to grow, Stevenson will have an opportunity to carve out a significant role for himself and make an instant impact in 2023.
