Kyler Gordon Signs $40 Million Extension, Becomes NFL’s Highest-Paid Nickel Cornerback

Chicago, IL – The Chicago Bears signed cornerback Kyler Gordon to a three-year contract extension worth $40 million on Sunday, solidifying his place as the highest-paid nickel cornerback in the NFL.

The deal, which will take effect after the 2025 season, ensures that Gordon remains with the Bears through 2028. With an average annual value of $13.3 million, he is now ranked as the 21st-highest paid cornerback across the league.

Gordon, drafted 39th overall by the Bears in the 2022 NFL Draft, has established himself as a key player in the team’s defense. Over the past three seasons, the 25-year-old has played in 42 games, starting 34, and has recorded five interceptions alongside 17 pass deflections.

“Kyler is a guy that we want to be a part of this moving forward,” Bears General Manager Ryan Poles said in March. “Getting him extended was a priority for us as we worked through our exit meetings from last season.”

In the 2024 season, Gordon achieved a career-high with 75 tackles, including significant contributions such as a half-sack, one forced fumble, and three fumble recoveries over 15 games. His performance was vital in helping the Bears improve their scoring defense for the first time since 2020.

“With his instincts in coverage and his ability to support the run, Gordon has matured into one of the league’s standout nickel cornerbacks,” said Poles. “Our new defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen, has a clear vision of how to utilize him in our attacking, aggressive style of defense.”

Gordon’s extension comes as the Bears prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, securing an essential component of their defense at a critical time. He joins fellow cornerback Jaylon Johnson under contract, providing the Bears with a reliable tandem in the secondary.

With this new deal, the Bears signify their commitment to a long-term strategy focusing on solidifying their defense and fostering growth under Allen’s guidance.

As the team looks forward to the 2025 season, Gordon’s role as a primary slot cornerback will be pivotal as he continues to develop his game and contribute to Chicago’s defensive unit.

The Bears and Gordon have agreed on a financial arrangement that provides him with $31.25 million guaranteed, reflecting the team’s investment in his future and their overall defensive strategy.