Tim Jennings and Charles Tillman both had breakout seasons in 2012. Jennings led the league in interceptions, while Tillman had more forced fumbles than anyone else in the league. In 2013, the expectations are there for them to repeat. How are they handling it? They talked about it to NBC Chicago at Tillman's bowling event for the Cornerstone Foundation.
Tillman wants another great year, but he's not concerned about extra pressures.
"I wouldn't say pressure's the word. You always want to outdo yourself. That was last year. Each year, you have to create an identity for yourself. Every year, I think about having a career year," Tillman said.
Jennings is continuing a practice he did last off-season to be ready for more interceptions. Before practice, he works out using the machine wide receivers use to catch passes.
"It paid off for me last year, so I'm going to continue doing it," Jennings said. "I'm trying to continue on what I did last year. It doesn't hurt to go out there and catch some JUGS and do the little things that you feel like you need to work on to get better."
Like Tillman, he's not worried that additional pressures will be there.
"Everybody expects me to do the same thing as you did last year, but I just want to continue to be consistent. When Peanut on the other side playing as well as he's playing, I'm going to continue to get opportunities. Hopefully I'll earn some respect around the league and they'll shy away from me, but if not, I'll keep getting those opportunities. If those interceptions come, I'm going to take them."
