The Chicago Bears entered training camp with a purpose: to grind the players down to see who the real competitors are. Head coach Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen have led the charge, bringing intensity and accountability to the field that players haven’t seen in years. They’ve made clear from the start that no job is safe. Everybody is competing. Allen has taken up that charge more than anybody else. He’s fostered an environment that is equal parts family and sibling rivalry. If you want a spot on the field in his defense, you’d better be prepared to work for it.
One person who is finding that out the hard way is Tyrique Stevenson. For the past two years, the former 2nd round pick has been the unquestioned starting outside cornerback opposite Jaylon Johnson. That status is now very much in danger. Allen was asked about the #2 spot since everybody knows Johnson is #1. The defensive coordinator didn’t mince words. The job is up for grabs. It no longer belongs to Stevenson. It will go to whoever earns it in training camp, and there is plenty of competition for the opportunity.
Dennis Allen has no obligations to Stevenson.
Draft status means nothing anymore. Dennis Allen wasn’t here when the Bears selected the cornerback; a different coaching staff did that. Matt Eberflus may have been loyal to Stevenson, but he’s gone. Allen only sees the player who frequently cost the Bears games last season. That Washington fiasco alone is a stink Stevenson still hasn’t fully escaped.
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