How the Bears Will Decide on Kyler Gordon's Availability for Week 6 Matchup Against Vikings
After a stellar training camp, expectations were high for Kyler Gordon, the second-year slot corner who stood out as one of the Bears' top performers. However, a broken hand during the Bears' Week 1 defeat against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field delayed his ascent.
Following a four-week stint on the injured reserve, the Bears signaled Gordon's potential return on Monday. Still, he needs to meet specific criteria this week to be greenlit for Sunday's clash with the Minnesota Vikings.
Coach Matt Eberflus outlined the benchmarks Gordon needs to hit: "It's about his fitness level first. We'll gauge that. Then, his movement, especially with the hand injury. He needs to handle blocks and play his part in run defense. His coverage skills have always been top-notch, so we expect that to remain consistent. The key is how he employs that hand."
Gordon remained unavailable for media interactions Wednesday due to a team policy regarding players on injured reserve.
Meanwhile, starting cornerback Jaylon Johnson, sidelined for the last two games with a hamstring issue, hinted at a full-strength return for the secondary against the Vikings. "The return of players like Gordon, Eddie Jackson, and me will undoubtedly energize the team," Johnson noted.
In Wednesday's practice, Gordon was a limited participant, showcasing a minor brace on his right hand.
For Eberflus' defensive scheme to hit its peak, three positions are crucial: a dynamic three-technique, an agile WILL linebacker, and a sharp slot corner. While the Bears' defense managed decently with Josh Blackwell and later Greg Stroman Jr. in Gordon's absence, with Stroman notably shining in the recent win against the Washington Commanders, a fit Gordon could elevate the team's performance.
Eberflus emphasized, "Kyler's versatility lets us diversify our defensive tactics. His preseason form had us excited, and it was a setback when he got injured in the opening game. His return should bring more stability to our defense."
The Bears have a deadline until Saturday afternoon to move Gordon from the injured reserve. If they decide against it, Stroman is anticipated to be the starting slot corner for the Sunday game against the visiting 1-4 Vikings.
| POLL | ||
12 OCTOBRE | 13 ANSWERS How the Bears Will Decide on Kyler Gordon's Availability for Week 6 Matchup Against Vikings Should the Bears play Kyler Gordon? | ||
| Yes | 10 | 76.9 % |
| No | 3 | 23.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
