Bears Cornerback Jaylon Johnson Returns to Practice After Injury

CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago Bears announced Friday that Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson has returned to practice, marking a significant step in his recovery from a core muscle injury. Johnson has been out since early September after sustaining the injury while diving to make a play during the Bears’ Week 2 loss to the Detroit Lions.

After undergoing surgery nine weeks ago, Johnson returned to the practice field as a limited participant. Coach Ben Johnson expressed optimism about his condition, saying, “We’ll see how long it’ll take to get him back in shape. But I think he’s in a good spot right now, and I think being out on the grass is going to be a good thing for him.” The Bears have activated a 21-day practice window for Johnson to evaluate his readiness for a return.

Johnson has faced multiple injuries this season, including a torn adductor that placed him on the non-football injury list before training camp. After missing the entire preseason and opening game, he returned to practice but suffered a groin injury during the Lions game that sidelined him again.

The Bears have struggled with injuries in their secondary, missing key players like cornerback Kyler Gordon, who has also spent time on injured reserve due to a hamstring and calf injury. Gordon is eligible to return next week, and Coach Johnson confirmed that they expect Gordon to be back soon.

Meanwhile, the Bears have relied on new addition CJ Gardner-Johnson to fill the nickel cornerback role in Gordon’s absence. In his two games, Gardner-Johnson has recorded three sacks and a forced fumble, proving to be a valuable asset.

The anticipated return of Johnson and Gordon could greatly improve the Bears’ defense as they look to solidify their position for a playoff push. After facing the Minnesota Vikings this week, they will take on the defending Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, on November 28.

In addition to injuries in the secondary, linebacker T.J. Edwards has also been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Vikings due to a hand injury, but he is expected back soon as well.

“We could potentially have some reinforcements coming,” Coach Johnson stated, referring to the hopeful return of Johnson, Gordon, and Edwards. “Those are three guys going into the season you had a lot of high hopes for.”