5 Takeaways from Chicago Bears Pre-Season Week 3

The Chicago Bears had some really good players going on Saturday.

2. D.J. Moore is everything he was advertised to be

When Ryan Poles acquired D.J. Moore, Chicago was beside itself. He was known as a true No.1 wide receiver who was electric after the catch and had an innate ability to change the game at any moment.

So far, new Chicago Bears receiver D.J. Moore has been exactly as he was advertised. In limited playing time against the Bills, Moore caught a pass downfield from Justin Fields, broke three tackles, and raced up the sidelines for a 40-yard gain.

This was the only glimpse we would get of D.J. Moore on this day but once more, it was enough. I can’t remember a single Chicago Bears receiver in my lifetime who runs quite like Moore. He’s essentially a running back who happens to be an elite wide receiver.

On a day where the offensive and defensive starters struggled, D.J. Moore stood out once again. I’ve never been more confident that Justin Fields has his guy.

Thank you, Carolina.

3. Tyrique Stevenson shows potential, but he’s still a rookie

Perhaps no Chicago Bear who is expected to be a starter has had as much playing time as Tyrique Stevenson during the 2023 NFL Preseason.

Stevenson has had the definition of an up-and-down summer. He showed up on Day 1 with confidence that he could play with anyone and he has proven to possess the ability to do so. However, he’s also had plenty of ‘Welcome to the NFL’ moments.

This game was a prime example of how good Stevenson can be while also proving that he has work to do to get there.

Early in the game on third down, Stevenson was flagged for defensive pass interference which gave Buffalo a first down. It was a teachable moment for Stevenson, who has had flag trouble throughout camp and preseason.

However, to quote Ted Lasso, Stevenson showcased the memory of a goldfish by immediately bouncing back with perfect coverage against Bills WR Gabe Davis, picking off backup Bills QB Kyle Allen in the process.

The Chicago Bears haven’t been coy with Tyrique Stevenson. The second-round draft pick was tabbed as the starting cornerback opposite of Jaylon Johnson almost immediately. He’s been thrown in the fire against the likes of D.J. Moore, Michael Pittman, and Stefon Diggs.

That’s why patience must be preached in the case of Stevenson. While he has the talent and toughness that Matt Eberflus looks for and may be a mainstay in this defense for years to come, he’s going to struggle at times this year and that’s perfectly fine.