Momentum Builds for Bears Rookie Defensive Tackles Zacch Pickens and Gervon Dexter
Throughout the course of rookie minicamp, OTAs, and training camp, Zacch Pickens, the Bears' rookie defensive tackle, wrestled with a persistent question: "Do I belong at this level?" As he realized his dream of playing in the NFL, a kernel of doubt remained. However, that uncertainty vanished after his performance in the preseason opener against Tennessee, where he registered a sack.
"I found myself executing plays better than in practice," said Pickens. "I was making quicker decisions on the field."
Both Pickens and his rookie counterpart, defensive tackle Gervon Dexter, made strong impressions during the preseason. Selected in April's draft�Dexter in the second round from Florida and Pickens in the third from South Carolina�the duo has quickly forged a close-knit partnership.
"Both of them take constructive feedback to heart," observed veteran defensive tackle Andrew Billings. "If you point something out, you can see them working on it the next day. They don't repeat mistakes, which is what professionals do."
Unlike Pickens, Dexter never questioned his belonging in the NFL. If anything, he was disappointed not to be drafted earlier. "My focus has always been on proving doubters wrong," said Dexter. "I've had moments that confirmed I can not only play but also excel in this league."
Dexter feels he has evolved significantly from his last season in Florida, particularly in his ability to move upfield and disrupt the pocket. Pickens, on the other hand, has been honing his skills as a nose tackle, although both have been trained in multiple positions.
As the Bears aim to improve upon last season, both rookies are expected to play significant roles, particularly on the defensive line. While Billings and veteran Justin Jones are likely to start the season opener against the Packers on September 10, Dexter and Pickens will be key rotational players. And when they take the field, it will often be side by side.
"Mutual confidence is the name of the game," said Pickens. "If we believe in ourselves and each other, we're unstoppable."
It may take some time for them to become the force that General Manager Ryan Poles envisions, and rookie learning curves are to be expected. But there's no denying that both players' confidence is on an upward trajectory.
"I've seen enough to know I belong here," affirmed Pickens.
| POLL | ||
4 SEPTEMBRE | 27 ANSWERS Momentum Builds for Bears Rookie Defensive Tackles Zacch Pickens and Gervon Dexter Will the Bears defense be able to neutralize Aaron Jones? | ||
| Yes | 18 | 66.7 % |
| No | 9 | 33.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
