Gervon Dexter Sr. drafted by Chicago Bears in the second round of NFL Draft

Florida defensive lineman Gervon Dexter was drafted by the Chicago Bears with the 52nd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The selection makes Dexter Sr. the second Gator off the board in this year’s draft (Anthony Richardson No.4). It also marks the 12th straight NFL Draft with a Gator defensive lineman selected, the current longest active streak (next closest team is Michigan at nine).

In three seasons at Florida, Dexter Sr. appeared in 38 games with 24 starts, starting all 13 last season. He finished his 2022 campaign with 55 tackles (23 solo), two sacks, four tackles for loss, one interception, and two pass deflections.

The Lake Wales native totaled 125 tackles (46 solo) 4.5 sacks, 9.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, four pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries throughout his time in Gainesville.

Although his numbers may not jump out at you, the Bears are getting a physical and versatile athlete that has all the tools to be successful at the next level. His production was limited because of the heavy workload Dexter Sr. had to endure due to the Gators lack of depth at the defensive tackle position, which NFL teams recognized.

Dexter Sr. talked to 22 different NFL teams throughout his draft process, getting many comparisons to Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones from NFL scouts. Dexter Sr. received round two draft grades, ultimately leading him to forgo his senior season at Florida and declare for the NFL Draft. The Bears selected Dexter Sr. with the 21st pick in the second round.

Dexter Sr. becomes the 52nd Gators’ defensive lineman drafted since 1967, which is tied for most in the SEC with Alabama and tied for second in college football behind Miami (58).

 

 

 

 

 

Nick Marcinko
Nick is a recent graduate from the University of Florida with a degree in Telecommunications. He is passionate about all sports but specifically baseball and football. Nick interned at Inside the Gators and worked part time with Knights247 before joining the Gator Country family. Nick enjoys spending his free time golfing and at the beach.