Chicago Bears: New addition to defense may be on the way
The Chicago Bears concluded their 2021 preseason schedule Saturday night, defeating the Tennessee Titans and second-year edge rusher Trevis Gipson, was a bright spot as he looks to have a sophomore breakout season.
After trading up to draft Gipson in the 2020 NFL draft, the former Tulsa pass rusher did not find the field as much in the 2020 season. Only appearing in seven games his rookie season was about expected for the fifth-rounder who sat behind Khalil Mack, and Robert Quinn.
A lot of people questioned if trading a 2021 fourth-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft for Gipson was going to come back and be a wasted pick for Chicago. Trevis appeared as a healthy scratch for the majority of the 2020 season.
Chicago Bears pass rusher Trevis Gipson impresses in 2021 preseason
Listed at 6 foot 4 Gipson’s appearance was struck by everyone when he first stepped foot into Hallas Hall and by fans on social media this summer. Gipson was able to add some serious muscle in the offseason.
Through three games in the preseason, Gipson had multiple tackle games, was in the backfield creating tackles for losses, and recorded a sack against the Buffalo Bills in the second preseason game.
In the 27-24 victory against the Titans Gipson caused a big play, with his efforts of strength and speed blowing right past Tennessee’s left tackle Christian Dilauro. Gipson disrupted the timing of quarterback Logan Woodside hitting his arm as he threw, resulting in an interception by Tre Roberston which was returned 27 yards for a touchdown.
As Gipson continues to make strides in his game, and make plays that impact the game this looks to be headed in the direction of yet another hidden gem that Ryan Pace was able to draft in the later rounds of the draft.
An increased role only makes sense for Gipson and this Bears defense headed into the new season. With the underperforming season that Quinn had in 2020 after signing a massive contract extension, makes you wonder how the progression of Gipson on a week-to-week basis will be handled by new defensive coordinator Sean Desai.