Ben Johnson deals clear Kyler Gordon message after Bears return

After a winding and mysterious offseason, Kyler Gordon has made his return to the Chicago Bears. But the cornerback still has some steps to take before suiting up on gameday.

For starters, the fact Gordon is still technical on the Physically Unable to Perform list, he must miss at least one more game. Furthermore, he did all of his rehab process away from the team. Chicago is still figuring out where Gordon is in terms of being ready to play.

Once he is up to speed, the defensive back should re-find his place in the Bears’ secondary. The franchise gave him a contract extension that made him the highest paid slot cornerback in the league in 2025. Now past his injury, Chicago wants to see him live up to the hype.

Head coach Ben Johnson is well aware Gordon hasn’t yet crossed the finish line with his recovery. He laid down his initial plan for the cornerback’s return.

Bears’ Ben Johnson holding Kyler Gordon accountable 

Over his 21-day practice window, Gordon will be undergoing what Johnson calls a “stress test.” He must prove to not only be healthy, but capable of playing at a high level. Those 21 days are going to give the head coach a strong idea on where the cornerback stands, via Dan Wiederer of the Athletic.

“We have a three-week window here to where we can really evaluate where he’s at physically and make sure that there’s no setbacks,” Johnson said. “I think that is Step One.”

Part of Johnson’s early success in Chicago has been his ability to develop a new culture. All offseason, this year’s team has been able to bond and grow as one. Gordon wasn’t a part of that. While he has been on the Bears going on five years, every season is different.

In that regard, the cornerback may need to work his way back into the good graces of his head coach and team. But Johnson’s top priority remains getting Gordon back to full health.

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