Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson has been named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in last Sunday's 37-17 win over the Falcons.
The rookie second-round pick registered two interceptions, tied for the team lead with five tackles and was credited with a game-high four pass breakups.
"I'm happy," Stevenson said. "I thank the guys, I thank the secondary, thank the D-line. I wouldn't be who I am without them guys pushing me and going out there and going to bat for me on the field."
Stevenson has started all 15 games he's played this season. He leads the defense with 15 pass breakups, is tied for the lead with four interceptions and ranks fourth with 77 tackles. All four of his picks have come in the last five games, including three in the last three contests.
"I like Tyrique for a couple of reasons," said coach Matt Eberflus. "No. 1, he's an aggressive player and he tackles well. That's an important aspect, and he's long. He's lean, he's long, he's got good lean mass so he can really tackle well. He can tackle big backs. You can see that. He knocks the back. That's the No. 1 thing I like about him.
"And then the length in the pass game. When you're covering deep routes and side pocket throws, that length matters. Having arms of 32 or 33 (inches) is different than having 28s. It's important that we acquire guys like that, and he's one of them. I love his attitude and I love his demeanor that he brings to the game every week."
Stevenson feels his recent production is the result of feeling more comfortable on the field.
"I think I just really settled down in my game," he said. "Just going out there understanding that I'm meant to be here and everything happens for a reason. And just understanding that I'm on the field for a reason, and when I go out there just play my game and know that the game is going to come to me."
Stevenson is the second Bears player to win a player of the week award this year, joining receiver DJ Moore, who was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week in Week 5.
Stevenson is the first Bears player to be named NFC Defensive Player of the Week since safety Eddie Jackson in Week 12 of the 2018 season.
In addition, Stevenson is the first Bears rookie to win a Player of the Week Award since Jackson in Week 7 of the 2017 season.
