Against the Detroit Lions in Week 2, Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson had one of his worst games of his NFL career.
The third-year cornerback gave up five receptions on five targets for 97 yards and a touchdown in the Bears' 52-21 beatdown at Ford Field.
It was an eye-opening game for Stevenson, serving as a reminder that the NFL will humble a player if they slip up in their preparation. Since that performance against the Lions, Stevenson has drastically improved his play.
How Stevenson has been able to turn it all around the last two weeks
Against the Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders, Stevenson has been targeted 12 times, but has only given up three receptions for 16 yards. The former second-round draft pick out of Miami also has an interception and three PBUs in that time span.
Stevenson started off the second half against the Raiders with a diving interception while covering wide receiver Jacobi Meyers. That was man coverage on an over route, a concept that the 6-foot, 204-pound corner was burned on for explosive plays in the loss to Detroit.
Rewatching Tyrique Stevenson's diving interception, the Bears' cornerback is in the slot. Nahshon is the boundary corner to that side of the field for that rep.
— Nicholas Moreano (@NicholasMoreano) September 29, 2025
Good job by Stevenson, trailing the Raiders' wide receiver and making a full extension to come away with the INT.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson has recognized the elevated play from his cornerback, especially in the 25-24 victory against the Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.
“I thought this was his best game to date,” Johnson said. “I don't know if there's been any light switch that came on or anything like that. I feel like I see the same approach that I've seen all year long from him over the last few weeks, but certainly, I think the confidence level is rising. He knows what he's capable of as a player. I think the coaching staff hasn't kept that a secret. He's very capable as a coverage defender. I think he can be a complete corner in this league – do man, zone, come up and tackle in the run game when called upon. It really just seems like he's gaining that confidence every single week right now and become the player he's capable of.”
Stevenson also recovered a fumble by rookie running back Ashton Jeanty after Bears linebacker Noah Sewell dislodged the ball.
Right now, Stevenson is playing some of the best football in his career, but he must sustain that level of play after the team returns from the Week 5 bye. And there should be something to prove for Stevenson because Week 6 will be against the Washington Commanders.
And everyone, including Stevenson, remembers how that game ended and the role Stevenson played in the Hail Mary.
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The rematch against the Commanders will be a good test to see if Stevenson can continue to elevate his play in Year 3.