Chicago Bears: 5 Players Who Prove Patience Matters

Dec 27, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) and tackle Charles Leno (72) congratulate each other as they scored a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 25, 2016; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive lineman Akiem Hicks (96) during the OTA practice at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

Akiem Hicks

#Bears DL Akiem Hicks 'sacked' Jay Cutler in practice Friday. Cutler told him to do that in pads. Hicks did Saturday. "He didn't say much."
— Zach Zaidman (@ZachZaidman) July 30, 2016

For four years in New Orleans, defensive lineman Akiem Hicks was considered a disappointment. While he’s have the occasional flash play, his numbers just didn’t reflect what was expected out of him. So the Saints traded his rights to New England, and it was there people began to see his game mature. Though not a pure pass rusher, he did provide pressure on the pocket and became a constant presence against the run. Since arriving in Chicago, he’s been the constant talk of camp. No matter the drill or situation, he seems to be the one forcing big plays for the defense. A rather surprising turn of events for a guy playing on his third team.

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