Kyler Gordon's imminent return could have a significant impact on the Bears' defense 4

Ben Johnson gives encouraging injury update on top Chicago Bears defensive players

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Eric Root | Last updated Nov 12, 2025 4:27 PM ET

The biggest weak link on the Chicago Bears roster right now is the secondary unit. Due to the injuries of stars Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon, the Bears’ secondary has been depleted.

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Nashon Wright and Tyrique Stevenson have visibly struggled since the absence of Johnson and Gordon. The Bears ended up signing veteran CJ Gardner-Johnson to boost the team. Gardner-Johnson has played some of his best football in his career and has made a massive impact to the Bears’ defense.

However, the secondary still isn’t playing up to the stand they should be. With the Bears likely playing meaningful football for the rest of the season, the question is when will their injured stars return.

Head coach Ben Johnson provided a small but positive update on his injured defensive backs.

Ben Johnson expects both Chicago Bears stars to return at some point this season

NFL: Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

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According to Kevin Powell of WGN Radio, the Bears head coach said that he believes both Johnson and Gordon will return at some point this season.

Ben Johnson on Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson: "We should be able to get them back at some point." #Bears pic.twitter.com/HrHDEO68uR

— Kevin Powell (@kpowell720) November 12, 2025

While it likely won’t be anytime soon, the Bears will have a chance to get their top defensive players back in December. Just in time for the final stretch of the season.

With the Bears sitting at 6-3, it seems that the team will be playing very meaningful games during the final stretch of the season. In order to have a shot to make the playoffs, they definitely need Johnson and Gordon back.

Johnson has been out since getting injured in Week 2’s loss over the Lions. Gordon was on injured reserve to start the season, then after returning he got injured again prior to Week 8.

Oct 13, 2024; London, United Kingdom; Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson (1) after an NFL International Series game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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