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While no single player is expected to be able to fully replace Billings' production and value on defense, Pickens has been able to absorb some of the veteran's attributes by learning under him over the last two seasons.
“Everything when it comes to technique, hand placement and interference,” Pickens said. “He did a lot for us. It's a big role to walk your steps. I still love him and still care for him.”
Pickens will focus on helping the Bears' defense play well going forward, but it took several weeks for the 2023 third-round draft pick to even get to that point.
Pickens recalled the extensive rehab process he endured over a month after the groin injury that allowed him to return to the field so quickly.
“I was here every day, showing up, skating, stretching, lifting, doing everything and coming back to make sure I could do it all,” Pickens said. “Running, jogging, starting everything over again because I was limping. The process was crazy, but the way I came back was fine.”
Other players on the defensive line who could be used more against New England are veterans Chris Williamswho recorded his second sack of the season against the Cardinals, and Byron Cowart.
Speaking about Billings' absence, defensive coordinator Eric Washington told reporters: “He can play from his position to the sideline, so there is no replacement for Andrew. And also his leadership, the example he sets every day in the meeting rooms and beyond the practice field.”
Washington also expressed confidence in the players who will replace Billings, including Pickens.
“I just want to see that energy, determination and physicality from Zacch,” Washington said. “Don’t stand in your own way. Don't think too much, don't analyze too much – just attack. He prepared for it and when we saw that, it made a big difference in our final result.”
“Coming off a long absence like he did – I’m not making excuses for him – just trying to find that rhythm. Practicing NFL football on Sunday is different than practicing it. It's different than walk-throughs. We will.’ I’m looking forward to him getting a lot better this week and him helping us win.
Squad changes: Along with Billings, cornerback Jaylon Jones (Shoulder) was also placed on IR on Thursday. Jones suffered a shoulder injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Cardinals.
The Bears also signed safety Tarvarius Moore from the practice team to the active squad and signed safety officers JT Woods to the practice team.
Moore has appeared in three games for the Bears this season and has racked up 64 appearances for the Bears in five seasons since being selected by San Francisco in the third round (95th overall). of the 2018 NFL draft.
