Bears Unsure Of CB Kyler Gordon’s Recovery Timeline

After missing OTAs and minicamp during the spring, Gordon opened training camp on the active/PUP list. He has not yet been activated, and head coach Ben Johnson said (via ESPN’s Courtney Cronin) it is “unknown” when a return to action will be possible. Gordon and general manager Ryan Poles have each hinted at their frustration with this situation in recent months.

The Bears worked out a three-year extension with Gordon last offseason. That $13.33MM-per-year pact is the NFL’s most expensive for pure slot corners, and it created expectations for a sustained run of strong play. Injuries limited Gordon to just five combined regular and postseason games last year, though. Team and player have been aiming for a rebound in 2026, but a “delay” in Gordon’s rehab has extended his time out of the picture.

Chicago’s secondary will already be shorthanded for most (if not all) of the coming campaign with free agent addition Coby Bryant undergoing knee surgery. Another year with Gordon sidelined for a notable period would also deal a blow to the unit. Fellow cornerback Jaylon Johnson managed to play in both of the Bears’ playoff games in 2025 but he missed 10 regular-season contests. A bounce-back in his case on the health front would be key as well.

Gordon is under contract through 2028, and his $10MM base salary for next year has already vested. A clean bill of health in short order would be critical for the coming season and beyond as a result. As the countdown to the fall continues, though, it remains to be seen if activation in time for Week 1 will take place. A move to the reserve/PUP list would ensure at least a four-week absence to begin the year.