Dennis Allen reveals Chicago Bears’ plan for cornerback trade acquisition

The Chicago Bears turned heads when they traded defensive tackle Gervon Dexter to the Atlanta Falcons. But they did so with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in mind. Chicago wants a unit that features players who fit his scheme.

In their return for Dexter, the Bears acquired cornerback Clark Phillips III. Now, Allen is figuring out exactly where he will play on the gridiron, via Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun-Times.

“Actually the majority of the tape we saw he played a little bit more outside, and yet I see him fitting into that nickel mix a little bit,” Allen said on Wednesday afternoon. “We’ll see. How quickly does he pick everything up? And then kind of go from there. But we’re certainly very early in the evaluation process there”

Phillips was predominantly an outside cornerback during his time with the Falcons. However, he has experience playing nickel dating back to his college years. Furthermore, the Bears have a clear need at nickel as long as Kyler Gordon’s injury saga continues.

Chicago won’t make any full decisions until they see Phillips on the field though. Perhaps he ends up playing both. For now, the Bears just want to know exactly what they have in their new cornerback.

Chicago Bears acquire Clark Phillips III

Phillips was originally a fourth-round pick by the Falcons back in 2023. He went on to appear in 28 games for the team – including seven starts – putting up 63 tackles, 10 passes defended and an interception.

A triceps injury limited Phillips to just one game in 2025. But he had five pass break ups each of his first two years in the league. Still only 24-years-old, the Bears clearly believe in his continue development.

Joining the roster so late into the offseason, it’s fair to wonder how long it’ll take Phillips before he is ready to make an impact. He still has to learn Allen’s playbook. Furthermore, he is starting at the bottom of the totem pole in terms of the depth chart.

Still, he is now officially a member of the Bears. He’ll have a premier opportunity to prove his worth to the coaching staff. And if Allen likes what he sees, Phillips should be on the field sooner rather than later.

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