Secondary set up to be great

Schrock’s Bears season review, grades: Secondary set up to be great originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

General manager Ryan Poles was right when he said the Bears are “built on a solid foundation” during his year-end press conference.

No position group showcases the bright potential of Poles’ rebuilding job better than the defensive backfield.

With four of the five members younger than 25, the Bears’ budding defensive backfield is set up to become one of the best secondaries in the NFL if all parties stay on their current track.

Our 2023 season review starts with the most promising group on the roster, one that should continue to grow and thrive as the Bears’ rebuild hits the next stage.

2023 Roster

Cornerbacks: Jaylon Johnson, Tyrique Stevenson, Kyler Gordon, Terell Smith, Jaylon Jones, Josh Blackwell, Greg Stroman Jr.

Safeties: Eddie Jackson, Jaquan Brisker, Elijah Hicks, Quindell Johnson, Adrian Colbert

Pending free agents

Jaylon Johnson, Josh Blackwell

MVP

Jaylon Johnson

There’s no debate on this category.

Johnson was one of the best cover corners in the NFL this past season. Head coach Matt Eberflus lauded Johnson for his improved understanding of his role in the scheme and increased ball production.

On the season, Johnson gave up just 25 catches for 195 yards and one touchdown while notching four interceptions and six pass breakups. Those 195 yards allowed were the fewest in the NFL, per Pro Football Focus. Johnson also led the NFL in passer rating allowed when targeted at 33.3. For comparison, you’d get a passer rating of 39.6 if you spiked the ball on every snap.

Johnson was named second-team All-Pro and earned himself a big payday in a contract season.

Weak link

Tyrique Stevenson

I don’t think any member of the secondary truly qualifies for this section, but I’ll get it to Stevenson after he went through the expected rookie struggles early in the season.

The second-round pick out of Miami gave up 72 catches for 836 yards and nine touchdowns this season. With…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/schrocks-bears-season-review-grades-140000568.html

Author : NBC Sports Chicago

Publish date : 2024-01-18 14:00:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.