What Could a Healthy Secondary Mean for the Bears?
The Bears have finally received good news on the injury front. Star cornerback Jaylon Johnson has returned to practice. However, that is not the only good news. Kyler Gordon is also expected to return in the next few weeks. The secondary has been plagued by injuries all year, so getting healthy would bring much-needed relief. The returns of these two star defensive players would offer serious reinforcements for the team's playoff push.
Johnson has only played in one game this year. Early in the season, he had a groin injury that required surgery. At the time, rumors circulated that he would miss the rest of the year. This was never confirmed, and it was reported that the team had hopes he would return near the end of the season. These reports did not ease the fear of Bears fans, as many ruled out the possibility of him returning, especially if it was not a competitive season.
All of these contradictory feelings were finally put to rest as he returned to practice and the team opened up his 21-day window to return from the injured reserve. The team is sure to be safe and patient to preserve his health. The former second-round pick would immediately anchor the secondary, which has struggled this year. Chicago's defense has been torn apart this season, allowing the fifth-most points per game. Injuries have been evident, as the backups have been unable to stop the pass game very effectively.
Similar to Johnson, Gordon has played minimally this season. He has been limited to two games as he started the year injured. Following those two games, the fourth-year corner was placed on the injured reserve. At the time, head coach Ben Johnson was confident it would be a short-term injury. Little has been said recently, but the belief remains that he will return sooner rather than later. The secondary is now set to get back to close to full health in the next few weeks.
Chicago has had injury issues all year, which has altered the defense's plan. The backups in the secondary have been shredded all season. They are not exclusive to the secondary either. For weeks now, the team has been trying to manage the defensive line's injuries. These efforts have been clear, as sacks and pressures on the quarterback have been increasing. With the return of the star corners, it would see an even greater increase due to improved coverage.
The Bears' offense has had a strong start to the season. Coaching has vastly improved from last season. The improved health may just be enough to turn the defense around. Right now, Chicago is holding on to hope for the playoffs. Heading into a critical stretch of games, the team is gaining reinforcements at the perfect time. A healthy group that plays well on both sides of the ball would not only increase playoff odds but could also turn them into serious contenders.
