Despite evidence to the contrary Sunday, Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington said Thursday that cornerback Tyrique Stevenson doesn’t have any big-picture issues with his focus.
Stevenson famously was gesturing toward fans Sunday while the Commanders were snapping the ball to start a Hail Mary pass as time expired. Stevenson was supposed to be guarding Noah Brown, who caught the tipped pass for a touchdown while the cornerback mistakenly leaped for the ball.
“I have complete confidence in Tyrique Stevenson,” Washington said Thursday. “I have complete confidence in his position coach, Jon Hoke. We just need to continue to work, continue to grow. I know Tyrique — and I know everybody on our defense — beyond that particular moment. That’s the advantage I have that maybe others don’t.”
Stevenson also had an unnecessary roughness penalty Sunday. He had one last year, too.
Washington said he didn’t see Stevenson jumping around with his back turned at the snap. He said he was watching how the offense lined up and how his defense line was lined up.
“My expecatiaton for every player on the field is to be in the right position and to do exactly what they’re supposed to be doing at that particular point,” he said.
Wednesday, coach Matt Eberflus declined to say whether Stevenson would be benched for Sunday’s game at the Cardinals. He said any discipline would be internal.
Washington shared a similar tone.
“My focus is moving forward and making sure we get the defense ready for the Arizona Cardinals. …” he said. “I’m not as much interested in consequences as I am making sure that we grow from every situation we’re involved in.”