Bears' Top Cornerback Gordon Nears Return from Hamstring Injury

As the Chicago Bears prepare to face the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday, they may be getting a key piece of their secondary back in the fold. Cornerback Kyler Gordon, the team's top nickel cornerback, returned to practice on Friday for the first time since September 5th, when he suffered a hamstring injury during the final walkthrough before the season opener.

Gordon's potential return is a welcome sight for the Bears, whose pass defense has been vulnerable in his absence. Through the first 3 weeks of the 2025 season, Chicago has allowed the 6th-most passing yards in the NFL, surrendering an average of 247.7 yards per game. With All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson also sidelined for the majority of the season so far, the Bears have struggled to contain opposing passing attacks.

Now, the team has designated Gordon as "questionable" to play against the Raiders on Sunday, giving him a chance to make his 2025 debut. The Bears will likely evaluate Gordon's status during pregame warmups before making a final decision, but his return to practice is a positive sign.

If Gordon is able to suit up, the Bears will have to decide whether to keep him in his usual nickel cornerback role or potentially move him to the outside to help shore up their pass defense. Gordon has experience playing on the perimeter, but he has thrived in the slot since transitioning to that position full-time in 2023. Regardless of where he lines up, the Bears will be happy to have one of their top defensive backs back on the field.