Unexpected Comeback: Bears’ Defensive Linchpin Set to Shake Up the Game After IR Stint

So, here’s the million-dollar question: can a lone helmet sitting quietly on a chilly, red bench really signal a turning point for the Chicago Bears’ defense? You’d think it’s just another piece of gear—yet nestled in that stillness is the hope of a defense-depleted team. After grappling with injuries this season, the Bears just got a potential game-changer back from injured reserve. Kyler Gordon’s 21-day practice window is open, and while soft tissue injuries are as unpredictable as a last-minute Hail Mary, his return could be more than just a morale boost—it might just be the spark that ignites their push to stay atop the NFC North. With a high-stakes Week 12 showdown against the Steelers—and let’s not forget Aaron Rodgers’ complicated Bears history—this comeback couldn’t be timelier. Buckle up, because things are heating up in the Windy City.

Detail of Chicago Bears helmets during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on December 23, 2012 in Glendale, Arizona. — (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The Chicago Bears have had to deal with several injuries on defense this season. Fortunately, help may be on the way.

A key Bears defender is returning from injured reserve.

“Bears designated Kyler Gordon for return and opened his 21-day practice window,” Adam Schefter wrote on X.

Bears designated Kyler Gordon for return and opened his 21-day practice window. pic.twitter.com/Zp9gq4RY0j

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 19, 2025

Leading the NFC North, the Bears will host the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 12. Each team is trying to secure a postseason berth, and given Aaron Rodgers’ history with the Bears from his time with the Green Bay Packers, there will be plenty at stake.

Gordon has been dealing with a calf injury since a Week 7 win against the New Orleans Saints, and the cornerback has missed four games.

Of course, this roster move doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s going to be healthy enough to play against the Steelers. He will practice, and the Bears should know more about his status going forward.

Soft tissue injuries are delicate and tend to linger, and they need to be handled with care. He will have to be activated before Week 15 before being ruled out for the season, so there’s plenty of time to make a decision.

The Bears have already won more games in the first year under head coach Ben Johnson than they did all of last season. Still, even the best teams can be improved, and Gordon’s return would be a huge boost to the defense.

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