Wheels Up in 2025
Why Montez Sweat and Gervon Dexter Sr. I believe they set for Breakout Seasons Under Dennis Allen?
By Shawn Lugo
A new defensive scheme, particularly one that emphasizes defensive line play — could be the spark that launches Montez Sweat into another Pro Bowl season and helps unlock the true potential of Gervon Dexter Sr.
After earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2023 during his first year with the Bears, Montez Sweat looks primed to elevate his game even further in 2025. Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen brings a unique and aggressive approach to the front seven, often using a singular 9-technique EDGE to create pressure. That’s a perfect fit for Sweat’s combination of speed and power, allowing him to take wide angles and attack off the edge with more freedom.
A key part of this offseason? Allen’s coordination with Pass Rush Specialist Brandon Jordan. Together, they sent Sweat, Dexter, Grady Jarrett, and 2nd year Edge Austin Booker to the University of Miami this spring for intensive work on pass-rush technique and finishing at the quarterback. We can only hope the returns will be promising. **(Jordan is one of the best in the business)**
Ryan Poles couldn’t be more bullish on Sweat:
“I don’t think there’s anyone in this building working as hard as Montez Sweat right now. He’s pushing weight, getting stronger, and in the best shape I’ve seen. He’s locked in.”
Even more encouraging, Sweat quietly played through multiple injuries last year — and still posted a better pressure percentage than the 23 season where he had 6 sacks for the Bears. With better health, an enhanced role in Allen’s system, and support from additions like Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo, Sweat’s pressures, I believe, will start converting into sacks, forced fumbles, and game-changing plays.
Gervon Dexter Sr.: The X-Factor
On the interior, Gervon Dexter Sr. is also ready to take a leap. There’s been too much focus on his get-off, a minor flaw that’s steadily improved. By his sophomore campaign, he was no longer routinely the last off the ball. In fact, he flashed many instances of being first off.
Where Dexter is growing: pad level, hand usage, and leveraging his natural power at the point of attack. He's started to incorporate more advanced pass-rush moves, including a cross-chop, a technique typically reserved for more explosive 3-techniques. That’s a sign of both confidence and development.
Montez Sweat himself sees the breakout coming:
“His transformation with his body, but I always expected big things from Gervon. He’s just waiting to blow, honestly.”
With Grady Jarrett mentoring him and Dennis Allen guiding him, I expect Dexter to round into a disruptive force who can collapse the pocket, stop QBs from stepping into throws, and become a more consistent run defender.
Last year Dexter ranked 28th among qualified DTs — respectable for a young player still putting the full picture together. Now, with better technique, confidence, and coaching, he’s poised to leap.
The Big Picture:
Under Dennis Allen, this Bears defense is transforming. Allen’s defensive line schemes will give Sweat more one-on-one matchups and let Dexter become more aggressive. Add in Grady Jarrett’s leadership and technique, Dayo Odeyingbo, Austin Booker’s upside, and a restructured front seven, you hopefully have the foundation for a pass rush that can finally take over games.
In 2025 I believe Montez Sweat can re-establish himself as one of the league’s top EDGE rushers — and Gervon Dexter Sr. could emerge as the X-factor that unlocks this defense’s ceiling.
Both players are critical to the Bears’ success this season. If they stay healthy and continue developing, Chicago’s front could be a nightmare for opposing offenses.
