Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson has had a rough last two years in the Windy City.
In 2024, he was most remembered for the now-infamous Hail Mary touchdown catch the Washington Commanders got on him while he was taunting the fans before the score happened. Last year, he was benched at the end of the season without taking a single snap.
Entering 2026, there is a weird feeling that the Bears are looking for Stevenson to be the CB2 opposite Jaylon Johnson. With it being a contract year, it feels as though Stevenson has a legit shot at turning it all around and getting back on the fan base's good side.
Tyrique Stevenson has a chance for a redemption story in 2026 with the Bears
Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen spoke with the media when asked about Stevenson. The cornerback has missed time during training camp with an injury. Allen hopes to have him back soon, but also gave an encouraging answer on his play.
“I think he is improving," Allen said via CHGO. "Obviously, we need him out here so he can continue to improve. As with a lot of guys it’s always a work in progress.”
Last season, Stevenson racked up 49 tackles, 20 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, one interception, and one tackle for loss in 13 games, also allowing a completion percentage of 57.6% and a passer rating of 86.3. Pro Football Focus graded him at a 64.4 overall, ranking 50th among NFL corners in 2025.
Many thought Stevenson would compete with Bears rookie fourth-round pick Malik Muhammad for the CB2 job. With the nickel position being a mess as Kyler Gordon recovers from his injury, Muhammad moved to the slot, leaving the CB2 job to Stevenson. While Stevenson is out, Josh Blackwell has been filling in.
After watching the 34-10 preseason win over the Cleveland Browns in their opener, most Bears fans are looking forward to Stevenson returning. Blackwell struggled mightily on the outside and could use Stevenson back in there.
This is truly a redemption year for Stevenson, as he is either playing for a future in Chicago or with another NFL team. All indications suggest he is trending in the right direction in his development. He needs to get healthy now.
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The hope is that Stevenson is truly on the right path because the Bears need him to step up more than ever.
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