Bears Make Final Decision on Star Tyrique Stevenson's Future After Receiving Final Stats Report from NFL

Chicago, Illinois – January 6, 2026

After weeks of silence and speculation, the Chicago Bears have reached a final decision regarding the future of Tyrique Stevenson — a decision made only after the coaching staff received the NFL’s complete end-of-season performance analytics report.

According to team sources, the data provided to the Bears went far beyond traditional box-score statistics. The league’s final report included snap-by-snap efficiency, target rate, yards allowed per coverage route, zone vs. man effectiveness, and detailed post-injury recovery metrics — a critical factor following Stevenson’s return from a hip injury late in the season.

The internal conclusion painted a nuanced but far from negative picture. In the games Stevenson played after returning, he was not identified as a liability. In fact, the data showed he allowed minimal yardage when targeted, limited explosive plays, and maintained solid positional discipline compared to the rest of the Bears’ secondary during the season’s final stretch. Where concerns emerged, however, was in week-to-week consistency and his ability to sustain a heavy snap load while still regaining peak conditioning.

That evaluation led to what team officials described as a measured and deliberate decision: Stevenson remains in the Bears’ plans, but he will no longer be guaranteed a starting role. Instead, Chicago will enter the offseason committed to an open competition model in the secondary, where roles will be earned strictly through performance — not draft status or reputation.

Head coach Ben Johnson is believed to support the approach, emphasizing data-driven decision-making over sentiment. Internally, the belief is that competition built on verified league metrics will produce a more adaptable and resilient defense.

Importantly, the Bears have not closed the door on Stevenson as a long-term piece, nor have they ruled out exploring trade possibilities should a strong offer emerge. With Stevenson entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2026, the decision is viewed as strategic rather than punitive.

For Stevenson, the message is unmistakable. This is no longer about a quiet benching or mixed signals. It is a defining evaluation period — one where durability, efficiency, and consistency will determine his future.

And for the Bears, once the NFL delivered its final report, ambiguity ended. The data spoke. Now, the results on the field will finish the conversation.