Bears are seeking 2nd-year growth from defensive linemen Gervon Dexter, Zacch Pickens

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — New Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington's coaching background is on the defensive line.

In taking over as the Bears’ defensive coordinator, Washington now has his eyes on Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens, a pair of second-year linemen who are key pieces for the team's defensive identity.

“I want to see polished fundamentals,” Washington said of Dexter and Pickens. “I want to see things that I know will allow them to be as disruptive and as efficient with their rush fundamentals as possible. We're talking about footwork, alignment adjustments based on the down and distance. When we're in an obvious passing situation, it’s more awareness and just a great coordination of fundamentals that I know that are going to give them a chance to really win that particular rep and down.”

The Bears selected Dexter in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, believing he could adapt well from Florida’s two-gap scheme to an assignment as a one-gap defensive tackle. Dexter played 40% of Chicago’s defensive snaps last season, with his role increasing late in the year as he became more comfortable.

Dexter, 22, had 2.5 sacks last season. He improved with the Bears' midseason addition of Pro Bowl pass rusher Montez Sweat, who drew more attention from opposing blocking schemes.

As they look ahead to the 2024 season, the Bears are preparing for Dexter to work as their primary three-technique defensive tackle.

“Our responsibility is to make sure he is (ready) when it counts,” Washington said. “And that's why we're going to use the full process – the offseason, training camp, every ounce of meeting that we can get, walk-throughs and just continue to move him forward.”

Pickens, 24, was a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He played just 25% of Chicago's defensive snaps last season, also seeing a slight role increase late in the year. Pickens had 20 tackles and a half-sack as a rookie.

The Bears’ defensive line is led by Sweat, who posted 12.5 sacks in 2023 – he led both Chicago and Washington in that category – and reliable nose tackle Andrew Billings.

Washington was hired by the Bears after serving as the Bills’ defensive line coach and assistant head coach. He coached Chicago’s defensive line from 2008-’10 under then-head coach Lovie Smith.

 Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 .