Bears Reveal Unexpected Way to Get In Akiem Hicks' Doghouse

Akiem Hicks is not the only leader on the Chicago Bears defense. However, most would say that he's at the top of the hierarchy. He has been there since the true inception of this unit back in 2016 and in that time nobody has made more plays. That has earned him the right to be the guy who decides how this unit is going to operate on and off the field.

Hicks is mostly known for being a goofball who loves to joke around with teammates. He can be stern when it's time to work but he always finds a way to keep things loose during a long and grueling year. While he's a fiery competitor, it doesn't seem there are too many ways to get under his skin. At least if you're on his side, of course.

Cornerback Prince Amukamara did reveal one though, and it's rather odd. Hicks is a big believer in football being family. The closer the bond is between teammates, the better the team plays. That is why he has established a weekly ritual every year. One that can get certain players in trouble if they don't participate.

“Every week we’ll eat at Akiem’s house and watch Thursday Night Football. He’s the one who leads that and he makes sure that we all do something together at least once a week. He definitely makes it mandatory, and if you don’t go you’ll hear about it.”

Akiem Hicks is using a tactic other great defenses have

This is actually a tactic that has been seen put to great use in the past. The 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense was noted for doing such things during their era. They made sure to get together constantly for meals in order to maintain chemistry. Those who didn't participate were scolded and eventually shunned if they persisted. Warren Sapp said, "That's Buc ball. That's our family."

It's clear Hicks feels the same way. This is his method of figuring out who's all in on this team and who is just there for the money. There is one minor issue though. Apparently, Hicks has a certain love for Chinese food, and since the festivities are at his house the team often has to eat that. Guys eventually voiced a protest and managed to convince him to try other things. Steaks and other barbeque options have since joined the menu.

Maybe someone will try to slip sushi in there at some point. Then maybe Hicks will chase them out of the house and down the street.