NEWSLETTER
It’s one thing to set lofty expectations for yourself before the season starts. But it’s something totally different when you set the kind of goals Chicago Bears cornerback Prince Amukamara has put out there for the 2018 season. Amukamara told Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune that he’s looking to haul in a 10-interception season. No, really.
“I’m reaching for the stars, right?” Amukamara said. “But at the same time, I know what I’m capable of. I know how hard I’ve worked. And every year I keep putting those goals out there. Because when it finally does happen, I can circle back to the time that I said it.”
Ah, yes. The classic it’ll happen eventually technique.
Amukamara has come away with just seven interceptions during his seven year professional career, so a 10-pick season wouldn’t just be a career best – it would surpass his career total. Indeed, it’s been two years since Amukamara has even come away with an interception – it was Week 3 of the 2015 season, when he stole a pass from Washington’s Kirk Cousins (who now plays for the Bears’ NFC North rivals in Minnesota) – so putting up a 10 spot would definitely come out of left field. But I hope he does it. I just also hope he isn’t waiting to see Cousins again to get started on his interception fest. The Vikings and Bears don’t square off until Week 11.
There have been plenty of chances to do it during the offseason, but the Bears have yet to pump the brakes on the expectations that surround this team heading into the 2018 season. And while I understand the hype can be a little much, I’m 100 percent here for this team (and its players) trying to speak excellence into existence.
