Unlike most people, Akiem Hicks didn't get a chance to finish "The Last Dance" documentary about the dynasty Chicago Bulls of the 1990s. He's been busy getting ready for the season while also catching up on a ton of Netflix. Apparently he realized how long he'd gone without seeing what happened to Michael Jordan and company. It seems the Pro Bowl defensive end came away with some impressions.
He had a bit of a running commentary on Twitter throughout. Though hilarious in its own right, there was a theme that began to develop. One where it revealed exactly what is on his mind. Not just personally but in regards to the Chicago Bears and their future.
It's obvious that Hicks has reached that point in his career where individual accolades mean nothing. If he's ever going to get proper recognition in his profession, it's going to be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Nothing else he or the rest of the Bears do matters until that mission is achieved.
Akiem Hicks isn't thinking playoffs. He's thinking championship
One consistent theme this offseason from most Bears coaches or players is obvious. Their goal is to get back to the playoffs. While not a bad thing, it's also a limited view. Simply making the postseason isn't an achievement. Hicks knows this. Nobody remembers the other teams that made the playoffs from year to year. They only remember the team that won the title.
The defensive end knows he is low on time. He's in his 30s now and coming off a serious elbow injury. There is no telling how much longer he can play at a peak level. This is why he's certain to instill teammates with a sense of urgency. Nothing less than everybody's best will be acceptable this year. COVID-19? Injuries? Coaching mistakes? All of those are excuses. Their job will be to execute and win the games.
If he has to set the tone, then so be it.
