The Chicago Bears suddenly find themselves with a good problem in the secondary — too much talent playing too well. Head coach Ben Johnson didn’t hide his excitement when asked how Nahshon Wright fits into the rotation once Jaylon Johnson is activated. His answer spoke volumes.
“He’s done a phenomenal job,” Johnson said with a smile. “I think he has certainly earned play time.”
That same sentiment extended to C.J. Gardner-Johnson, whose versatility has been crucial with Kyler Gordon out. Johnson made it clear Chicago intends to keep both players involved, even as the unit gets healthier. The challenge now isn’t plugging holes — it’s finding snaps for everyone.
Wright’s play has made that challenge unavoidable. His first-quarter interception on Sunday — a one-handed grab near the sideline — drew one of the strongest compliments Johnson has given any defender this season.
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“It was one of the most athletic plays and phenomenal catches I’ve seen in a long time,” Johnson said. “What’s undersung about what Shonny is doing right now is how much he’s influencing the run game. He’s coming up, he’s tackling the ball carrier, they’re throwing a bubble screen and he’s knifing through the play.”
With Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson trending toward returning for Friday’s matchup against the Eagles, the Bears could be near full strength in the secondary. Tyrique Stevenson has held his own, but Wright is playing on a different level right now. He has earned every snap he’s getting — and Chicago must find a way to keep him on the field.
