Chicago Bears training camp opened with a clear message for Kyler Gordon, and it came in just two words from Ben Johnson: "Get healthy."
That was the blunt response Johnson gave when asked what he wants to tell the Bears defensive back as he works back from a soft-tissue injury. It stood in sharp contrast to the tone earlier in the day from general manager Ryan Poles, who said Gordon’s situation has been frustrating for everyone involved.
"Obviously, he's frustrated," Poles said via Chicago Tribune's Brad Biggs. "We're frustrated. Everybody here is putting there time and effort to getting him back."
Gordon’s injury has already wiped out a big chunk of his availability. He played only three games last season because of the soft-tissue issue and finished with seven tackles, one tackle for loss, one quarterback hit, one sack, and one fumble recovery.
The Bears also said during the press conference that Gordon has been around the team facilities trying to get healthy. Even so, he did not show up for OTAs and never practiced.
Johnson’s answer made it sound like the Bears are past the point of offering much more than patience. He wants his starting nickel corner back on the field, and the frustration around the situation is easy to hear.
If Gordon remains out, Chicago has a few ways to handle the nickel spot. Josh Blackwell is listed as the backup, while rookie Malik Muhammad, Jaylon Jones, and Tyrique Stevenson are all options the Bears could use there until Gordon is ready.
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