With camp underway, we’re breaking down every position group on the Chicago Bears.
The Chicago Bears‘ cornerback position didn’t end up quite as strong as I thought it would be a season ago, but the talent is there for the group to bounce back. They didn’t make a big free agent splash, and they waited until pick 169 to address the position, so they were relatively content to roll with the group they inherited.
Roster Locks
When Jaylon Johnson unexpectedly landed on the Non-Football Injury list, the tin foil hat crowd assumed he was salty about his contract. It has since been revealed that he injured his leg while working out. He has been rehabbing at Halas Hall, and the Bears expect him back in a few weeks.
The other starting corner is Tyrique Stevenson, who had a rough sophomore season, but does have a skill set that fits Dennis Allen’s scheme.
Nickelback Kyler Gordon just got a big contract extension, and Allen plans to move him around the defense to take advantage of his versatility. I expect a big year from Gordon.
Chicago signed Josh Blackwell to a two-year $5 million contract, and he’ll be a core special teamer and backup at the nickel.
A Good Bet to Make it
I probably would have had him on the bubble a week ago, but since learning that Nahshon Wright has been running with the ones as Jaylon rehabs from his injury, I think he has a decent chance to make the 53-man roster. Things could change, but Wright (6’4”) has been in the league for four years and was coached by current Bears DB/passing game coordinator Al Harris for three years in Dallas. I’ll be curious to see if he keeps getting starter’s reps at the other corner spot once Johnsson is activated off the NFI list.
Rookie fifth-round pick Zah Frazier was drafted with the scheme in mind, so odds are good he makes the 53. However, his absence from camp due to personal reasons could be a factor.
On the Bubble
Terell Smith was drafted with the last scheme in mind, so he’ll need to show this regime he’s a fit. He has six starts in 24 games, so he could have some trade value if Wright or Frazier do beat him out.
Tre Flowers was recently signed, so he’s still getting up to speed on the defense. He feels like one of those experienced veterans who make the practice squad.
Ameer Speed was on Chicago’s practice squad last year and was elevated for a couple of games.
Chicago is Nick McCloud’s sixth stop since being a UDFA by the Bills in 2021.
Shaun Wade was with the Patriots from 2021 to 2023 and was on the Chargers‘ practice squad last year.
Undrafted free agent Jeremiah Walker was signed after their rookie minicamp.