The Chicago Bears’ defense dominated the Tennessee Titans, and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson is determined to keep teaching opposing offenses hard lessons. Speaking with the media on September 11, Stevenson issued a warning to the NFL, cautioning teams against targeting his side of the field.
“I’m not a weak link,” Stevenson declared. “Just because there’s an All-Pro corner over there doesn’t mean you can throw my way just because you feel like it.”
Stevenson referred to Jaylon Johnson, the Bears’ cornerback who earned Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro honors last season. As a second-year player and 2023 second-round pick out of Miami, Stevenson embraces the challenge of those who think they can target him.
“I see it as an opportunity,” Stevenson said. “We all know the ball isn’t going to Jaylon, so the defense counts on me. I need to make the plays that come my way, catch the passes, and keep everything funneled back into our defense.”
Stevenson made an even stronger statement with his performance four days before his public remarks.
The 24-year-old Chicago cornerback recorded 4 tackles, 2 passes defended, and an interception returned for a touchdown in the Bears’ September 8 game against the Titans at Soldier Field.
However, Stevenson and the Bears will face a tougher challenge on Sunday Night Football as they go up against quarterback C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans offense on the road in primetime.
During his rookie season, Stevenson showed his ballhawking ability, with 16 pass breakups, 4 interceptions, and a forced fumble, according to Pro Football Reference. He played 553 coverage snaps, was targeted 110 times, and allowed 72 receptions, per Pro Football Focus. Stevenson is also considered an ideal scheme fit for the Bears’ defense.
The Bears’ young cornerback has continued his strong play into 2024, showing even more promise against tougher competition than Will Levis and the Titans in Week 1. A major factor is how well Stevenson fits into Chicago’s defensive scheme.
James Foster of 33rd Team labeled Stevenson a breakout candidate this season, highlighting the Bears’ frequent use of zone coverage and Stevenson’s effectiveness in those schemes, even as a rookie who faced constant passes thrown his way.
“According to TruMedia, Chicago used Cover 2 or Cover 3 on nearly 60% of its snaps, ranking in the top five for usage of both coverages,” Foster noted. “Stevenson excelled in zone coverage, leading the NFL with 14 pass breakups and interceptions. While he needs to work on his press coverage footwork and reduce penalties, he’s trending upward and is an excellent fit for Chicago’s defense.”
