The Chicago Bears decided to let several players walk out the door this offseason, including cornerback Nahshon Wright. He joined the New York Jets in free agency. This means cornerback Tyrique Stevenson could be thrust into the spotlight in 2026. But from the outside looking in, that may be a massive mistake for this team.
Stevenson is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and his tenure in the Windy City has been up and down. But with Jaylon Johnson slated to be CB1 at one boundary spot and Kyler Gordon lining up in the slot, the other outside CB job is available for Stevenson, but the team should have some reservations.
Bears Support of Tyrique Stevenson Could Hurt Them in 2026
Throughout his three seasons with the Bears, Stevenson has started at least 10 games. Last season in 13 games (10 starts), he had 49 total tackles, 10 pass deflections, and an interception, but he played in a career-low 588 defensive snaps.
After playing in 70 percent of the defensive snaps in eight games over the first 11 weeks, things took a turn over the second half of the season. From Week 15 through the rest of the season, Stevenson played in 58 percent or fewer of the snaps six times. The Bears felt comfortable with Johnson and Wright on the boundaries with C.J. Gardner-Johnson in the slot.
The coaching staff clearly didn't think one of the team's best cornerbacks, which is why they had him on the bench. But in looking at the numbers, you could see why he was moved to the bench. In 45 career games (40 starts), Stevenson has allowed 155 catches (256 targets) for 2,049 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. In each season, he allowed 40-plus catches and 590-plus receiving yards.
Teams found success, completing at least 53 percent of passes thrown in his direction. While Pro Football Focus grades aren't the end-all, be-all when analyzing a player's production, Stevenson never graded out too well. He never finished higher than 70th overall at his position in coverage grades, which is less than ideal for a defensive back.
The Bears could certainly add a cornerback in the NFL draft, but if they don't, Stevenson is slated to be a starter for this team in 2026. How that unfolds remains to be seen, but there's certainly reason for skepticism. Stevenson's NFL career has been a rollercoaster to say the least, and the Bears could come to regret their decision to roll with him as a starter next season.