Is the Bears 26-Year-Old Cornerback Nearing His 2026 Season Debut?
The Chicago Bears injury report has been a highly followed storyline in 2026. At the start of the season, multiple key players were injured. Then, things seemed to turn around when the entire active roster was healthy. Now, a new wave hit their running backs and the offensive line. Injuries happen frequently in the NFL, and the Bears have been no different. However, things are looking a little better, as Kyler Gordon has been fully practicing.
Gordon has been one of Chicago's most discussed players over the past year. His first few seasons went well, resulting in a three-year extension. Since then, he has struggled to stay on the field. Last year, the Bears' 26-year-old cornerback only played in three games. He entered this past offseason injured and did not practice. The coaching staff seemed frustrated with the slower-than-expected recovery. 2026 was set to be a make-or-break year for Gordon, as the team is targeting players who help the championship push.
Last week, the Bears' 26-year-old cornerback finally returned to practice. Since then, he has been able to practice fully nearly every day. The former second-round pick is nearing his season debut. Ben Johnson said one of the three players on the Physically Unable to Perform list will likely be activated this week. The other two options are linebacker Noah Sewell and defensive lineman Shemar Turner. Those two started practicing before Gordon, so they have less time remaining before their 21-day practice window closes. It would be surprising if the former Washington Huskies standout returns before them, but it is still worth monitoring before kickoff.
The secondary could use their 26-year-old cornerback. Both Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson have struggled this season. Johnson is too talented to take off the field, but Stevenson has been losing his playing time. Malik Muhammad has been one of the Bears' biggest breakout surprises this year. He has been elite in coverage and has helped pressure quarterbacks on blitzing plays. Gordon needs to earn his spot back, but he would give Chicago much-needed depth at cornerback. The Bears' 26-year-old cornerback could give the team a solid trio that can hold up long enough in pass coverage to help the pass rush out.
Many fans have lost patience with the Bears' 26-year-old cornerback. The former Washington star cornerback's inability to stay healthy has made him hard to rely on. However, his talent has never been the question. The hard-hitting NFC North defensive back can hold up in coverage and play multiple roles. He is the type of chess piece that defensive coordinators like Dennis Allen love to use. If the former second-round pick is even just half the player he was before his injury, then the Bears defense gets a major boost. Even if Gordon isn’t back in Week Five, his 2026 debut could be soon.
