The Chicago Bears are hoping defensive backs coach Al Harris can help unlock the best version of Tyrique Stevenson in 2026, and early signs from OTAs are already generating buzz.
Stevenson has become one of the most polarizing players on Chicago’s roster over the last two seasons. The talented but inconsistent cornerback has flashed high-end ability at times while also drawing criticism from fans for costly mistakes and lapses in focus.
But according to Harris, the former second-round pick is showing noticeable growth this offseason.
“He’s more focused and locked in,” Harris said, via team reporter Larry Mayer and other Bears media members. “He’s focusing on the small details and asking the right questions.”
That type of praise is significant considering how disappointing Stevenson’s 2025 season became.
After a promising start that included standout performances against the Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders early in the year, Stevenson’s play regressed badly as the season went on. By the end of the year, he had even lost snaps to Nahshon Wright in certain situations.
Now entering the final year of his rookie contract worth roughly $6.4 million, Stevenson may be facing the most important season of his NFL career.
Tyrique Stevenson Still Has the Talent the Bears Believed In
Despite the criticism surrounding Stevenson, the Bears still appear ready to give him another opportunity to lock down the CB2 role opposite Jaylon Johnson.
Part of that comes down to talent. Stevenson remains one of the more physically gifted defensive backs on the roster. He plays with aggression, confidence and the type of edge coaches often want from cornerbacks.
At his best, he has shown the ability to match up with bigger receivers and make plays on the football.
The Bears also did not make a major veteran addition at cornerback this offseason. With Nahshon Wright and C. J. Gardner-Johnson no longer on the roster, the path is open for Stevenson to reclaim a full-time starting role.
Chicago did add rookie Malik Muhammad in the fourth round and still has Terell Smith developing behind the starters, but Stevenson currently appears to have the inside track heading into training camp.
Bears Fans Have Not Forgotten Stevenson’s Rough Moments
Of course, Bears fans are going to need more than positive OTA reviews before fully buying back in.
Stevenson’s rough reputation among parts of the fanbase largely stems from the infamous Hail Mary loss to the Washington Commanders during the 2024 season. On the game’s final play, Stevenson was seen jawing toward fans before the snap and later tipped the ball that resulted in the game-winning touchdown.
The moment quickly went viral and became attached to Stevenson’s public image in Chicago. Unfortunately for him, his inconsistent 2025 season only added more frustration.
Still, NFL careers can change quickly, especially for young defensive backs. Stevenson is only entering his fourth NFL season and clearly still has believers inside Halas Hall.
If Harris’ early evaluation proves accurate, Stevenson could quietly become one of Chicago’s biggest bounce-back candidates in 2026.
Bears Fans’ Most Criticized Player Draws Major Praise at OTA’s