Danny Trevathan Shows Off Broncos Super Bowl Ring, Strives For Another With Bears

By Chris Emma--

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- With the look of beaming pride came Danny Trevathan with a new prized possession.

The Bears' new linebacker, Trevathan emerged Wednesday at minicamp holding the Super Bowl ring he earned last season with the Broncos, holding it for (almost) all to see.

"I didn't get a chance to look at it," Bears defensive lineman Ego Ferguson said. "I've just seen the box. The way that box looked, I bet that ring looked amazing."

Oh, it was amazing. The ring shined with the sun's glare surrounding the big Broncos logo, and "Trevathan" was engraved on the side. The ring represents a team accomplishment and the goal of every individual in the NFL coming to fruition.

Entering his first season with the Bears, Trevathan plays with a constant chip on his shoulder. Winning a Super Bowl only adds to his motivation level, he says. After winning for four years in Denver -- a postseason appearance with each season -- Trevathan wants to win some more in Chicago.

Bears general manager Ryan Pace delivered the ring during practice Wednesday, and Trevathan's eyes lit up, realizing what had arrived. Following the practice, he took the ring on a tour of Halas Hall to make sure teammates could get a good look.

"I wanted them to know this is what it's all about," Trevathan said. "It's about -- year in and year out -- getting this ring. I know what it takes now. You have to put in those days. You have to work, be smart, take care of each other and have that brotherhood, on and off the field. At the same time, I wanted them to see what it looks like in front of their face.

"They're ready to get after it. It's one thing to say it, but it's one thing to do it. I believe these guys are stacking some of the best days we've seen. We're right where we need to be, but we can always get better."

Trevathan, 26, joined the Bears as a rare NFL star available as a free agent during his prime. The Broncos' dominant defense had other priorities, allowing Trevathan, a Pro Bowler, to hit the open market. Bears coach Jon Fox, Trevathan's former coach in Denver, was quick to work in bringing in a new leader for the defense.

During this pivotal second offseason for Fox, Pace and the Bears regime, the team made significant upgrades across the roster -- none bigger than at inside linebacker, where Trevathan will be joined by Jerrell Freeman. Along with new defensive lineman Akiem Hicks and more, they've helped instill a winning culture at Halas Hall.

"It seems like night and day from last year," Bears quarterback Jay Cutler said of the defense.

Trevathan's confidence shows with constant chirping and trash-talking in practice. It's playful, of course, but a champion can say whatever he wants. Others have followed suit, part of that spreading swagger for the Bears' defense.

Now, there's a Super Bowl ring at Halas Hall. Trevathan put in the work to achieve that, then he enjoyed sharing it for his new teammates. After all, he wants another one with a Bears logo.

"I was really excited to show them," he said, "but I'm excited to get back to work and chase it again."

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.

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