The Chicago Bears have no shortage of players that could experience a breakout season in 2023. Justin Fields is the popular choice. He has more weapons and a retooled offensive line around him. It’s his second year in the same offense. The idea makes sense. There is also safety Jaquan Brisker, who had a solid rookie season. Left tackle Braxton Jones is another worth watching, as is fellow 5th round pick Dominique Robinson. Yet amidst these discussions, there is one name missing.
What about Kyler Gordon?
It’s remarkable how people seem to have completely forgotten about the Bears’ top pick from the 2022 draft. Most people seemed to abandon the young cornerback after his ugly start to the year. Yes, it wasn’t good. In the first five games, he allowed 60+ yards four times and a play of 40 yards or more in three of those games. Nobody talks about how much he improved. Over the final nine games, Gordon allowed 60+ yards twice and zero plays of 40 yards or more. He also added three interceptions.
Kyler Gordon won’t be facing the same gauntlet this year.
Part of his struggles in 2022 came from his rookie inexperience getting exposed by a flurry of good quarterbacks. In his 14 games, he faced the likes of Aaron Rodgers, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, Dak Prescott, and Kirk Cousins. That doesn’t include Jared Goff, who had another Pro Bowl season. This year could be different. His list of foes will be Jordan Love, Baker Mayfield, Sam Howell, Jimmy Garoppolo, Bryce Young, and Desmond Ridder. Not the most imposing slate of names in the world.
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If Kyler Gordon builds on the form he showed toward the end of last season, he is primed for a big year. Talent was never his problem. He has everything required to be very good. It was about whether he could handle the challenges of playing the nickel spot after spending his college career on the outside. With Tyrique Stevenson poised to handle the latter, it allows Gordon to focus all his efforts on nickel. He believes that is what will help take his game to the next level.
