Bears' Rookie Improving, But Rebuild Process Will Take Time
Many of the NFL draft's top 60 players are primed to hit the ground running, bringing significant impact from the get-go. However, Gervon Dexter, the Bears' defensive tackle, might be playing a different tune.
Hailing from Florida, Dexter boasts all the prerequisites of a formidable three-technique: size, power, agility, and an explosive force. His journey to football, though, began quite late; he only started playing in his junior year of high school. This late introduction to the sport, coupled with his stint in Florida's read-and-react defense, entails a comprehensive rebuilding process for Dexter by the Bears.
The retraining commenced promptly after the first day of rookie minicamp. However, there is no fixed timeline for Dexter's full transformation. The Bears' approach is to be patient with him, recognizing his continual growth while also acknowledging the long road ahead.
"Every player is unique," noted Travis Smith, the defensive line coach, during the Bears' fifth OTA practice on Wednesday. He emphasized Dexter's limited football experience and a different system of play. Smith shared his renewed approach to training rookies, starting with perfecting their stance before moving on to advanced techniques. "We've seen some improvements in practice, corrected yesterday's mistakes, and I'm optimistic about further progress," he added.
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However, the Bears' strategy doesn't imply a slow start for Dexter. He's expected to contribute from the start, though with reasonable expectations. As the season unfolds, Dexter could potentially rise as a powerful force within the defensive line. However, his initial role might be more focused on stopping runs while the Bears hone his technique.
When the Bears chose Dexter in the second round, they were acutely aware of his potential and his raw skills. They knew his explosive power might require some refining and that he would likely be more of a developmental project compared to other second-round choices. Yet, they also recognized his innate, non-teachable traits that could make him an exceptional player.
Dexter's enthusiasm and ambition to excel have already made an impression on the Bears since his arrival. This intrinsic motivation is crucial as he embarks on this transformative journey.
Smith lauded Dexter's love for football and his athleticism. Defensive coordinator Alan Williams, too, praised Dexter's eagerness to learn and be coached. "He's physically formidable and quick. And he has a thirst for learning and coaching, which is an excellent trait," Williams added.
Last season, the Bears' defense had difficulty stopping runs and disrupting the quarterback. The inclusion of Dexter, Zacch Pickens, their third-round pick, and Travis Bell, their seventh-round choice, should inject fresh vitality into their defensive line this coming fall.
While all rookies, including Dexter, have a lot of learning and development ahead, the Bears are optimistic. As they embark on this journey, they can envision the pinnacle of success. The path is promising, but it will require patience.
Reflecting on Dexter and Pickens, Smith saw promising movement skills and athleticism. "It doesn't matter when you're drafted; what matters is playing the right way," he emphasized. Dexter, Pickens, and Bell are expected to bring much-needed disruption to the team this fall. Their complete evolution might have to wait, but their initial contributions will be integral to the Bears' ascent.
Previously on LetsBearDown
| POLL |
JUNE 1 | 73 ANSWERS Bears' Rookie Improving, But Rebuild Process Will Take Time Will the Bears make the playoffs next season? |
| Yes | 56 | 76.7 % |
| No | 17 | 23.3 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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