Sounds Like Gervon Dexter Is Already Doing What Experts Said He Can't

The Chicago Bears surprised people when they made Gervon Dexter their second pick in the 2023 draft. While drafting a defensive lineman was hardly unexpected, everybody felt GM Ryan Poles sought an interior pass rusher. Dexter never came across as that kind of player during his time at Florida. His sack numbers were minimal, and he'd earned a reputation as more of a big, stout run defender. That isn't bad, but taking a run-stuffer in the 2nd round feels like a slight overreach.

As to his pass rush potential, Dexter was a freak athlete. He could move with serious quickness and had the power to match. The problem was his get-off. He was often the last one off the ball, leading many to believe he didn't have the necessary explosiveness to be a threat to the quarterback. Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus saw it differently. He might unlock some vast hidden potential with some adjustments to his game. By the sound of things, it's already happening. Adam Hoge of CHGO reported one such instance on Tuesday.

"We’ve heard all the right things about Dexter since he was drafted in the second round in April, but Tuesday he backed it up with a strong performance. On one particular rep, he won with a quick get-off and a swim move to easily get the win.

After practice, Bears head coach Matt Eberflus admitted Dexter has to relearn how to execute a quick get-off and “he’s got to be more consistent with it.” Remember, Dexter was asked to read and react at Florida instead of firing off the ball at the snap."

It didn't take long to happen again.

Andrew Freeman of Bear Report was in attendance on Wednesday. Dexter popped up again, this time with an even more impressive flash.

Gervon Dexter is attacking his weaknesses relentlessly.

Eberflus is correct. It will take time for the defensive tackle to get used to his new stance and elongated stride. He used neither during his time in college. Still, to see immediate results in practice against veteran guards and centers is a great sign. Justin Jones has already said "Big Dex" is going far in the league. Cody Whitehair is impressed with how good Dexter is with his hands. All of this isn't superficial praise. They sense the young man is gifted, and he has the ferocious work ethic to take full advantage.

The Bears know they have to manage expectations. Putting too much on his plate could stunt Gervon Dexter before he's ready. They will continue tweaking his style of play while letting him utilize his strengths. It's a safe bet their next big decision will come during the preseason. Right now, he is the backup behind Andrew Billings at nose tackle. That could change if he comes out firing over the next few weeks in game action. One thing is clear. Dexter's rapid progress is already making them look like geniuses.