The Chicago Bears signed Tremaine Edmunds last year because they needed somebody in the middle of their defense who could create problems with his versatility. While the start to the season wasn’t ideal, he eventually ended up with four interceptions and helped spearhead one of the NFL’s best run defenses. However, like any linebacker, he is only as good as the defensive line in front of him. Edmunds had a front-row seat for the arrival of 2nd round pick Gervon Dexter in 2023.
That selection was met with uncertainty by fans. They were hoping for somebody with a proven track record for rushing the passer. Dexter did not fit the criteria. However, he was big, powerful, long, and athletic. Head coach Matt Eberflus felt that with the right developmental plan, Dexter could turn into a serious weapon. It took some time, but the young defensive tackle finished the season playing some good football. The fact Chicago hasn’t made any big additions to the defensive line suggests they have high hopes for him.
Edmunds has gotten an early look at Dexter through OTAs. He already sees a change.
Tremaine Edmunds knows what is likely coming this year.
They say a player almost always makes his biggest jump from year one to year two in the NFL. This will be Dexter’s second season. He finished last year with 2.5 sacks in his final five games, barely missing a few others. His pass rush potential was starting to flash more and more. Draft experts said he resembled Chris Jones when he put the pieces together in college. The problem was they were never consistent. Now, he has a huge advantage in his favor. Eric Washington has taken over as the new defensive coordinator.
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Washington comes from Buffalo, where he served as their defensive line coach. He knows Tremaine Edmunds well but will be an even bigger asset to Dexter. Washington’s track record is rich with turning young defensive tackles into studs. He did it with Henry Melton in Chicago, Kawann Short and Derrick Brown in Carolina, and Ed Oliver in Buffalo. If anybody can maximize what Dexter has to offer, it’s him. It seems the results are already showing up. When somebody that big, strong, and fast is motivated, there isn’t much you can do to stop them.
