Dennis Allen confirms Bears are planning for a major defensive return that could change everything at the right time
The Bears are planning for CB Kyler Gordon to be back in action Saturday night.
The Chicago Bears have had a rough go defensively the last few weeks of the regular season, and it’s created a lot of concern on that side of the ball going into the playoffs.
In fact, the defensive concerns have been constant throughout the season, but the unit has shown some ability that adds optimism. Even though the Bears are giving up an egregious amount of yards and big plays, the unit has a knack for tightening up in the red zone, limiting points, and taking the ball away at a higher rate than any team in the league.
This coaching staff has a lot of confidence heading into the postseason, and one major boost can help change everything at the right time for this defense.
Bears are planning to have CB Kyler Gordon back on the field against the Packers
On Tuesday, the Bears opened the 21-day practice window for nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon to return from the injured reserve, his second stint of the season. It’s certainly been a frustrating season for the recently extended defensive back, who’s played only three games due to various injuries.
When the Bears placed Gordon on the injured reserve for a second time on Dec. 13, the hope was that Gordon could return after the four-week absence just in time for the postseason. With Gordon back at practice on Tuesday as a limited participant, it sounds like that’s still the plan for this week.
“I think our plan is to have him be a part of it,” defensive coordinator Dennis Allen told reporters on Wednesday. “Today will really be the first day that we really get out there and go practice, get a chance to see him move around. I’m excited about getting him back in the fold and seeing what he can do.”
Gordon’s potential return on Saturday comes at the perfect time for another reason outside of the obvious playoff implications. In Week 18’s loss to the Detroit Lions, C.J. Gardner-Johnson left the game with a concussion, and he’s been manning Gordon’s role since being signed earlier in the season. It’d be extra fortunate to have Gordon back if Gardner-Johnson can’t clear protocol in time.
“It gives us another playmaker,” Allen added. “Obviously, it’s been unfortunate we haven’t had [Gordon] much this season. But he was a guy that, coming into the season, we were really excited about, and I feel like he can help us make some plays and help us win.”
The stats speak for themselves. In the three games Gordon has played this season, the Bears are 3-0 with wins against the Washington Commanders, New Orleans Saints, and Philadelphia Eagles. In those three games, the Bears allowed 17.7 points per game with nine total takeaways on defense.
It’s not often one player can be the difference for that kind of impact, but Gordon brings a lot to this defense that goes beyond any stat. If he indeed suits up, it’ll be a major advantage for this entire defense against the Packers.
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