3 young Chicago Bears players who must step up in 2022

Kyler Gordon must step up for the Chicago Bears in 2022

It might sound unusual to say that a rookie has to step up in his first season, but that’s exactly what Kyler Gordon must do. The fact is, he was selected at a spot where many fans expected to see the Bears take a wide receiver or offensive lineman. He was not the “ideal” pick for many fans.

However, he was absolutely the correct pick. Gordon very well could have gone in the first round, but falling to 39 was not something the Bears saw coming. So, they had to take him. He was the best player on the board.

As a rookie, Gordon could end up having an enormous impact. The Bears secondary was one of the worst units in football a year ago, and now that they have added both Gordon and fellow rookie Jaquan Brisker, the Bears could have pulled a total 180 in their defensive back field.

If Gordon plays at a high level as a rookie, then the Bears defense might actually be better than some would like to predict at the moment. Gordon’s play, paired with Jaylon Johnson, could really help to give Justin Fields better field position on a regular basis.

The Bears have already been strong at rushing the passer with guys like Robert Quinn and Trevis Gipson leading the pack. If their secondary takes a step, this defense could surprise. Not only that, but Gordon could help quiet the national narrative about Poles failing to add necessary offensive talent in the draft.