96 Days Until Kickoff: A Tribute to 96
The Chicago Bears are 96 days away from taking Soldier Field for the 2022 Season. Instead of doing a history of #96(no offense Alex Brown), I wanted to do a much-needed tribute and thank you to Bears fan-favorite Akiem Hicks.
Hicks signed a 1-year deal to head down to Tampa Bay in hopes to pursue sunshine and a deserved Super Bowl Ring. With all the changes across the organization, Hick's presence willbe missed in the locker room and on the field. From swallowing up running backs in the backfield and the line of scrimmage, mauling the quarterback, and causing headaches to the opposing game plan are just a few things the defense and Bears fans will miss.
Hicks fit what the Bears historically have been known for, ferocious, mean, nasty, and dominating defense. Out of all 22 men on the field, there was never a question as to who brought the most intensity, it was always #96.
Across the league, there was not one player more excited to see Hicks leave the division than Minnesota Vikings RB Dalvin Cook. Hicks and Cook have a little history that goes back to the magical 2018 season, and certainly, Hicks was always ready for the matchup.
Hicks certainly had the run in Chicago also. Over his 6 seasons, he recorded 31 sacks, 247 tackles, 51 TFLS, and 88 QB hits. Undoubtedly, Hick's is one of the more premier and underrated interior defensive linemen in the league.
I know I can speak for the entire fan base when we say thank you and we're going to miss the ferocious howl and energy on game days.
