Kyler Gordon: The Unfazed New Addition Poised to be Bears' Defensive Ace in 2023
When Titans' quarterback Malik Willis released the ball to a wide-open Chris Moore on the first play of Saturday's preseason showdown at Soldier Field, nobody expected what came next. Kyler Gordon, the Bears' sophomore cornerback known to his coach as Spider-Man, smashed into Moore, flexing his muscles and announcing his presence, loud and clear.
The message was unmistakable. This isn't the Kyler Gordon who faced his share of struggles during his rookie year. Now, he's a player reborn, exuding confidence, and playing with an unshakeable calmness that's resonating throughout the Bears' defense.
«Like, I just can't be bothered. I'm only focused on � it's like an ultra focus," Gordon explained after the Bears' 23-17 triumph over the Titans. "I know what to expect. I'm confident in what I am about to do. My eyes are in the right spot. There's just nothing bothering me. I don't feel hectic at all. Everything is just smooth and calm.»
Gordon's smooth, yet ferocious play on Saturday saw him lay down two substantial hits on Titans' receivers. The Bears selected him in the second round of the 2022 draft, lured by his intriguing combination of movement skills, coverage prowess, physicality, and a sharp understanding of the game. Despite a turbulent first season, Gordon has clearly matured and found his rhythm.
Certainly, his initial days in the NFL were filled with challenges, perhaps even more so for a cornerback learning to adapt both inside and outside the lines. The midpoint of last season marked a turning point for Gordon, although a concussion and unrelenting attention from opposing quarterbacks hindered his progress.
But Gordon wasn't about to be deterred. The offseason saw him dissecting and learning from his mistakes through relentless film study, while also examining slot receivers he's likely to face. The fruits of that labor were evident in his electrifying performance on Saturday.
«Spend more time in the film room after the first half of the season. That's when I started to take off," Gordon shared. "Being able to really settle down this offseason and amp up all that stuff and fix what I needed to fix. I feel great now.»
The Bears' defense is brimming with optimism and potential for the upcoming season, with Gordon seen as a vital component. The critical changes and improvements across the board, complemented by newcomers like linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue, are raising hopes for a transformative year.
Gordon's role is especially crucial in head coach Matt Eberflus' scheme. As the nickelback, he must be sharp, quick to adapt, and fierce in run support. This blend of physicality and intelligence is what sets Gordon apart, and he's determined to ensure everyone sees it.
«I feel like it's been a little noticeable. It could have been a little shaky in the beginning," Gordon admitted. "I'm just working my ass off really. I'm going to have fun, I'm going to fly around and I'm going to hit. That's what I love to do. I love this game. So that's what I'm about, really.»
The vibe in the Bears' first-team defense is palpable, and the shared belief that they're on the brink of dominance in 2023 is infectious. Gordon may very well be the lynchpin of that aspiration.
"It was a short little showcase of what I'm ready to do this year," he confidently stated.
The Bears are eager to see more, knowing that Gordon's transformation could be the catalyst for their defense to reach new heights.
| POLL | ||
13 AOUT | 31 ANSWERS Kyler Gordon: The Unfazed New Addition Poised to be Bears' Defensive Ace in 2023 Will Kyler Gordon grab a starter spot? | ||
| Yes | 27 | 87.1 % |
| No | 4 | 12.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
