The Bears are getting back their starter at one of the most important positions in coach Matt Eberflus’ defense.
Nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon was activated from injured reserve Saturday and will play Sunday against the Vikings. Gordon broke his hand in the season opener against the Packers, had surgery and returned to practice this week. The Bears had three weeks after his first practice to activate him off IR.
Gordon might solve some of the Bears’ issues in pass cover-age and figures to help with the pass rush, too. Eberflus likes to blitz the slot cornerback and counts on him to help in run defense, too.
‘‘He’s looked good,’’ Eberflus said Friday. ‘‘We’re excited where he is. Obviously, that nickel spot is a big spot for us, and he’s done a good job with that. A lot of things in there to do, and he does ’em well. He’s done a good job all week with that. He’s a real positive guy, so it’s always great to have his energy out there, as well. He certainly brings that passion.’’
The Bears telegraphed the move when they opened a spot on the 53-man roster Friday by putting running back Khalil Herbert and receiver Equanimeous St. Brown on IR and signing third-string quarterback Nathan Peterman to the active roster.
Gordon will be joined in the secondary by cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who is returning from a hamstring injury suffered in Week 3. Safety Eddie Jackson, who hurt his foot in Week 2, is questionable.
