Sep 28, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back Brock Vereen (21) celebrates after intercepting a pass in the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes at TCF Bank Stadium. The Hawkeyes won 23-7. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Look, I get it. I know training camp hasn’t officially opened. I know the Bears are just in shorts and shirts, for now. But, I am beyond excited for Brock Vereen. The newest Bears Safety has impressed in mini-camp and OTA’s, and has a legit shot at starting week one against Buffalo.
With Ryan Mundy likely starting at Strong Safety, the tandem of the two Safeties may not look very good on paper, but with a revamped front seven, the secondary play should be much improved. Bears defensive coordinator Mel Tucker says Vereen “Has great attention to detail. He’s very sound from a technique standpoint. He’s smart, he plays fast. He doesn’t make a lot of mistakes.” With absolutely dreadful Safety play last year, (which stemmed from terrible play from the Defensive Line and Linebackers) things like this makes Bears fans very happy.
When Chris Conte returns from his shoulder injury, I’m sure he’ll be getting reps with the starting defense. But, for now, just let me be excited about Brock Vereen.