Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Tennessee Titans in Week 1. Stevenson’s performance included a 43-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of Chicago’s 24-17 comeback victory over Tennessee, which ended up being the winning score. It marked the longest defensive touchdown in the league in Week 1. Stevenson also added four tackles in the win.
This is Stevenson’s second-career Defensive Player of the Week Award, earning the honor in Week 17 of the 2023 season as a rookie. Stevenson becomes the fourth Chicago defensive back to earn the honor multiple times, joining Charles Tillman (three-time winner), Mike Brown (two), and Eddie Jackson (two).
Tyrique Stevenson Picked Up Where He Left Off in Week 1
Stevenson picked up where he left off in Week 1, intercepting Will Levis in the fourth quarter. Stevenson logged four interceptions in his rookie campaign in 2023, all of which came in the Bears’ final six games. Stevenson now has five interceptions in his last seven games.
Stevenson received a 74.9 overall grade at PFF this week, 14th among all cornerbacks. His 78.1 coverage grade ranked 13th.
Chicago’s secondary held the Titans to 104 passing yards and a 59.4 completion rate on Sunday. Much of their best work came in the second half when they held Titans quarterback Will Levis to 10 of 17 for 60 yards and two interceptions.
Chicago Bears rookie cornerback Caleb Williams credited Stevenson and his defense with picking up the offense on Sunday following the victory.
“It was awesome. It was great, the defense, for what they did today,” Williams said in Sunday’s post-game press conference. “Seventeen points in the first half is enough, but to be able to come back out in the second half and shut them out is unbelievable. We’ve got a great team, great brotherhood building here, and we’re going to keep growing.”