The Chicago Bears are heading into 2024 with a roster brimming with talent, particularly in the skill positions. Much attention is rightly centered on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and his dynamic supporting cast, given their electrifying potential. However, amidst the buzz surrounding the Bears as potential Super Bowl contenders, there are some lesser-known players who could make significant contributions to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
While rookie sensation Caleb Williams and other flashy stars hog the spotlight, the Bears boast hidden gems who could play crucial roles in their playoff aspirations. Two such players warranting attention are tight end Gerald Everett and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson.
Gerald Everett, acquired in the offseason, joins a stacked receiving corps led by standout Cole Kmet. Although overshadowed by other acquisitions like Keenan Allen and D’Andre Swift, Everett brings a consistent presence to the Bears’ passing game. With solid performances in previous seasons, including a standout year with the Los Angeles Chargers, Everett’s versatility adds depth to Chicago’s aerial attack. Despite stiff competition for targets, especially with emerging talents like Rome Odunze, Everett’s potential impact in dual tight end sets could prove invaluable for quarterback Caleb Williams.
In the secondary, while Jaylon Johnson garners well-deserved attention, Tyrique Stevenson quietly emerged as a force during his rookie campaign. Selected in the second round of the NFL Draft, Stevenson’s impressive stats from his debut season highlight his potential to become a premier cornerback. Despite flying under the radar outside of Chicago, Stevenson’s rapid development suggests he could form a formidable duo with Johnson, bolstering the Bears’ defense in the process.
As the Bears aim for postseason success, these hidden gems may prove instrumental in elevating the team’s performance on both sides of the ball.
