What a Former Second-Round Pick's Season-Ending Injury Means for the Bears
The Chicago Bears have placed cornerback Kyler Gordon on injured reserve. The decision officially means Gordon will miss the rest of the season, with just four games remaining on the schedule and little time for recovery. This isn’t the first time the star corner has been sidelined this season, as earlier in the year he missed the opening set of games due to injury. Gordon has become a major concern on the Bears’ defense, and it’s unfortunately not because of his on-field performance when available. Chicago fans are now beginning to question: is Gordon worth keeping around?
Gordon was drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft with the 39th overall pick. He went on to have a terrific rookie year, finishing with 55 combined tackles and three interceptions. He served as a strong complementary corner across from Jaylon Johnson, causing opposing offenses consistent issues in the passing game. Fast forward to the 2025 season, Gordon has appeared in only three games, totaling five tackles. When healthy, he is a high-level corner and an essential part of the defense. In the NFL, however, availability is often the best ability. Over his career, Gordon has missed well over a dozen games due to multiple injuries, forcing the Bears to rely heavily on backup corners. Unfortunately for Gordon, he may need to prepare for life after Chicago.
In early April of this year, Gordon signed a three-year, $40 million contract extension with $31.25 million guaranteed. While the decision has not paid off so far for Chicago, the contract ensures Gordon will be compensated despite his extended time away from the field. The Bears could choose to retain him for next season and give him one final opportunity to deliver a fully healthy campaign, although that outcome appears uncertain. Trading Gordon could provide Chicago with financial flexibility to pursue a replacement, though the team may already have suitable options in place. Cornerbacks Tyrique Stevenson and Nahshon Wright, have both proven themselves this season, stepping up during Gordon’s absence. As the Bears continue their excellent season evaluate their roster, Gordon’s future with the organization remains an important situation to monitor.
