The Chicago Bears defense might be undergoing an identity change this off-season. No, it won’t be a full-blown scheme adjustment, like from 4-3 to 3-4. New defensive coordinator Dennis Allen runs his own version of the 4-3. The core issue with his arrival is a likely shift in personnel preferences. It is a safe assumption he might have differing ideas about the types of players he wants on the field. Sure enough, Adam Hoge of CHGO just provided an update that should make certain names already on the roster nervous. None more so than Gervon Dexter.
Hoge heard some interesting things at the scouting combine. While the Bears defensive coordinator loves the secondary GM Ryan Poles has built, he appears to have changes in mind from the front seven. That includes finding a new three-technique defensive tackle.
While the Bears’ defensive scheme will still be a base 4-3, fans will still notice some big differences under new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
While Matt Eberflus’ scheme was big on rules and staying in your gap, Allen’s scheme allows for players to freelance a little more and take chances. That means the “bend-but-don’t-break” days might be over. Allen’s scheme might result in a few more explosive plays given up, but it should also lead to more negative plays for opposing offenses.
The Bears believe they have plenty of players that fit Allen’s mentality well, especially in the secondary. And, not surprisingly, team sources believe the biggest changes are needed up front.
Defensive end Montez Sweat and tackle Andrew Billings are safe bets to continue as starters, but you can expect a significant investment made opposite of Sweat, while the Bears might also look to upgrade their 3-technique position.
In hindsight, this should be a surprise.
History shows that Allen often prefers defensive tackles who are explosive off the ball. Sheldon Rankins and Bryan Bresee are perfect examples of this. Dexter, for all his strengths as a player, isn’t known for his explosiveness. This instantly changes how the top of the draft could play out for the Bears.
Gervon Dexter might be facing a position switch of some kind.
If he’s not the three-technique defensive tackle, there are two possibilities on the table. Either Allen will shift him to nose tackle, which many experts felt was his natural position, or he could shift to defensive end. Allen historically likes big, long defensive ends. Gervon Dexter certainly qualifies. If that happens, suddenly, the three-technique spot goes up for grabs, and this upcoming draft class has numerous options. None are bigger than Mason Graham of Michigan. Most consider him the best interior pass rusher in this draft with his burst, quickness, and relentless motor.
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Initial projections didn’t have him available at #10 but his average overall build from the combine has some thinking he could be there. In such a scenario, the Bears seem far more likely to take him now. Yes, offensive line remains a priority but don’t expect GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson to ignore Allen’s needs. This is more an unfortunate reality for Dexter.
