The Chicago Bears have started training camp, with veterans and rookies ready to showcase their talents. One player has stunned Bears’ media and coaches alike with his profound display of athleticism and physical transformation on the field. It’s clear Bears’ defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. has taken massive strides as he enters his second year for several reasons.
Bears’ Gervon Dexter Sr. Taking ‘Massive Strides’ Heading Into Year Two
Coming Into Training Camp With a Goal in Mind
Dexter Sr. was a raw prospect coming out of the University of Florida. Standing tall at 6’6″ and weighing 312 pounds, you don’t typically see a 21 now 22-year-old tall and young defensive tackle with perfect technique. However, last season, Dexter worked hard at learning the proper mechanisms an elite DT should possess and took strides in that area. Coming into training camp, he’s shown a remarkable body transformation, appearing leaner and quicker on the field. But Dexter Sr. aims for more than just looking the part. With Justin Jones’ departure, he plans to take on a more prominent role. “I want to have my name on those walls when you walk in (Halas Hall).”
Gervon Dexter put in the work to become leaner and more explosive this offseason. He did so driven with a goal in mind for his career: “I want to have my name on those walls when you walk in (Halas Hall).” pic.twitter.com/N9X1J9v2LB
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) July 23, 2024
Breaking Standards
It may come as a surprise to learn that Dexter Sr. did his conditioning test with the defensive ends rather than the defensive tackles. To put it in perspective, Dexter, at 312 pounds, passed a conditioning test designed for players around 250 pounds. Teammate Montez Sweat praised Dexter’s decision to test with the DEs, saying, “He definitely made a transformation with his body, but I always expected big things from Gervon. He’s just waiting to blow, honestly.”
It’s inspiring to see such a young player taking advantage of his opportunity to make a name for himself, which is exactly what Dexter plans to do next season. Being in ‘marathon shape’ will do wonders for Dexter as he heads into a crucial sophomore season. He also appreciates having someone like Sweat, who has achieved the success Dexter is aiming for. “If I see him doing something, I’m going to do the same thing because he’s having the success that I want,” Dexter said.
#Bears Gervon Dexter Sr talking about how he benefits from being around a proven vet like Montez Sweat.
“If I see him doing something, I’m going to do the same thing, because he’s having the success that I want”
(Via Chicago Bears YT) pic.twitter.com/A9b5TKfbZv
— ImBearingDown (@ImBearingDown) July 23, 2024
Bears Gervon Dexter Sr. Comments on His Decision to Undergo a Physical Transformation
It’s never easy to commit yourself to achieving a goal in mind, big or small. For Dexter, it’s a big opportunity to showcase his potential as the starting three-technique. “Being leaner helps me get off the ball faster. Being leaner helps me penetrate faster. So a lot of those things—the three-technique role—I can do a little easier because my body is allowing me to do it.”
Heading into year two, it’s clear Dexter not only has huge aspirations but is backing it up with his actions. There are rumblings of a huge season ahead for the Bears, and especially for Dexter. His hard work and determination won’t go unnoticed, and soon, he’ll be able to showcase his efforts on the field against some of the best the NFL has to offer.
Predicted Statline for the 2024-25 Season: 38 Total Tackles, 6.5 Sacks, 2 Forced Fumbles
Main Image: Mike Dinovo – USA Today Sports
