The controversy surrounding Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson was thought to be resolved after the team’s narrow 18-15 loss to the Washington Commanders in Week 8. Stevenson faced scrutiny for taunting Commanders fans during the final play—a Hail Mary pass—before inadvertently tipping the ball to Washington’s Noah Brown for the game-winning touchdown. After apologizing for his lapse in focus, the team seemed ready to move on.
However, during the November 3 episode of “FOX NFL Sunday,” analyst Jay Glazer revealed that tensions were still simmering. He reported that the Bears decided to bench Stevenson for Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals. “They’re benching him today,” Glazer stated. “When he learned he wouldn’t be starting, he actually left practice early, which didn’t sit well with the team.”
Following Glazer’s comments, ESPN insider Courtney Cronin added that Bears players are calling for the same level of accountability from the coaching staff that they are expected to uphold in games, particularly after the disappointing loss in Washington.
Bears Players May Have a Point, as HC Matt Eberflus Was Heavily Criticized After Week 8 Loss
The demand for accountability from the coaching staff is well-founded. Following the Bears’ 18-15 defeat to the Washington Commanders, head coach Matt Eberflus faced harsh criticism for his game management and comments after the game. One notable point of contention was the Bears allowing a 13-yard out route that set up the Commanders’ Hail Mary; Eberflus downplayed the significance of that play, claiming it “didn’t matter.” Sports analyst Mike Greenberg described this remark as one of the “five dumbest” he’d ever heard, according to the New York Post.
Moreover, Eberflus’s decision not to call a timeout during the game’s final series to organize his defense drew scrutiny, and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron has also been criticized for his play-calling at various points throughout the season.
As a result of the loss and the ensuing backlash, discussions about Eberflus’ future with the team have intensified. Fan confidence has taken a significant hit, with a recent survey from Windy City Gridiron revealing that 76% of respondents have lost faith in the head coach’s leadership after the loss to Washington.
Bears Players Firmly Behind CB Tyrique Stevenson
Cronin provided more insight into Glazer’s report about Stevenson leaving practice early after learning of his benching. She explained that Bears coaches and executives decided not to start Stevenson on Tuesday and informed him before Wednesday’s walk-through practice.
“I’m told that Stevenson left practice after the stretching period to gather himself upon hearing about his demotion,” Cronin wrote. “However, he returned to practice just a few minutes later and participated in the team activities during the walk-through. While his teammates were frustrated with how things unfolded in Washington, there was no confrontational atmosphere surrounding his early exit.”
She also highlighted that the team remains supportive of Stevenson. “This isn’t a permanent benching by any means,” Cronin stated. “The Bears believe in Stevenson and want to help him take accountability while moving past his focus issues from the Commanders game.”
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