Report: Bears' Stevenson won't start Week 9 for disciplinary reasons
Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson won't start against the Arizona Cardinals due to disciplinary reasons, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The 24-year-old pulled himself out of practice Wednesday when he heard the news about his benching, and his actions didn't sit well with the Bears locker room, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reports.
Stevenson celebrated and taunted Washington Commanders fans during the final play of last week's contest, which was ultimately a successful Hail Mary pass that gave Washington the win.
Tyrique Stevenson taunting fans mid play only to allow the game winning Hail Mary moments later is certainly instant karma if I’ve ever seen it pic.twitter.com/C7L5uCFgwZ
— Big Game Bengal (@BengalYouTube) October 28, 2024
This is considered a one-week demotion, Rapoport adds. Stevenson will be active and rotate in with cornerback Terell Smith.
"To Chicago and teammates my apologies for lack of awareness and focus. The game ain't over until zeros hit the clock. Can't take anything for granted. Notes taken, improvement will happen," Stevenson said on social media hours after the game.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus said Monday that Stevenson also addressed the team.
Stevenson has played in six games (five starts) for Chicago this season, racking up 35 tackles with one interception. He's allowed 25 receptions for 414 yards and two touchdowns as the nearest defender in coverage, according to Pro Football Reference.