NFL Exec Claims Gervon Dexter Is On Cusp Of Superstardom

The Chicago Bears aren't just hoping the latest infusion of young talent turns them into a good team. Ben Johnson and his new coaching staff look like a considerable upgrade from the previous regime. If so, there is a strong possibility that some of the talented players on the roster should get better. One name that might not be getting the attention he deserves is Gervon Dexter. The former 2nd round pick had a career-best season last year, notching five sacks. His 39 pressures were actually better than names like Calais Campbell, Bryan Bresee, DaRon Payne, Dexter Lawrence, and Kenny Clark.

Yet the media never talks about him. Sure, the Bears being a bad team last year has something to do with that, but you'd think people would be more excited about his progress. Instead, everybody's talking about the new additions made at defensive tackle with Grady Jarrett and Shemar Turner. One NFL executive thinks that is a mistake. He told Jeff Hughes of Da Bears Blog that people still don't understand how good Dexter is and how much better he will likely become.

Who do you love on this defensive line? "Dexter. Our draft room let out some audible 'fucks' when the Bears grabbed him. And he's just scratching the surface. What is he, 23?"

Gervon Dexter knows he's facing a pivotal season.

The Bears haven't shown any indications that he is in trouble. However, the arrivals of Jarrett and Turner, along with a new coaching staff, put his status in limbo. He doesn't enjoy the protection afforded to him by Matt Eberflus, who played a big role in drafting him. Dennis Allen had no say in his arrival two years ago. That means Gervon Dexter has a lot of proving to do. There is also the fact that this season is when players tend to start really pushing for contract extensions. If Dexter keeps improving, the Bears are almost certain to start negotiations before his rookie deal ever gets close to expiring.

If nothing else, this means he'll have plenty of motivation. In the past, Allen has been really good at getting big production from defensive tackles. Sheldon Rankins had nine sacks one year in New Orleans. He got 6.5 out of David Onyemata in another. Bresee had 7.5 last year. The best part is Dexter won't have to log heavy snaps each week thanks to the presence of Jarrett and Turner. He should be relatively fresh throughout every game, which usually leads to more sack opportunities.