The Chicago Bears announced several roster moves today, including activating defensive back Kyler Gordon from the Physically Unable to Perform list. Gordon has not played this season while rehabbing a calf injury he suffered in the offseason. He was in the midst of his 21-day practice window and was a full participant for all 9 practices over the last three weeks.
At yesterday’s press conference, head coach Ben Johnson said this about Gordon, “He’s done a great job taking everything that we’ve assigned him so far. I feel good about him — whether that’s this week or next week — being able to contribute to this team and help us out, and there’s a number of ways he can do that. But I’m encouraged with what I’ve seen so far.”
On Thursday, defensive coordinator Dennis Allen met the media and said this about Gordon, “He’s been working extremely hard. He’s been great around the building. He’s been doing everything we’ve asked him to do. I’ve been impressed with him.”
It’ll be interesting to see how the Bears deploy Gordon on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons, because while most of his NFL experience has been at nickel, he’s also played and practiced at corner and safety. His versatility, if he can stay healthy, will provide the Bears’ defense a huge boost.
The Bears also signed defensive back Nick McCloud to the 53-man roster from their practice squad, placed defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo (quad) on injured reserve, and released safety Xavier Woods.
Odeyingbo is second on the team with 3 sacks, third with 3 tackles for loss, and he leads Chicago defensive linemen with 2 batted passes. He’ll miss at least 4 games on IR.
Chicago also announced that they’re elevating linebacker Buddy Johnson and running back Zavier Scott from the practice squad for Sunday’s game. They’ll revert to the practice squad after the game.