Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon was named “Spider-Man” by his teammates last season due to his intuitive and agile ability on the field. Then Defensive Coordinator Alan Williams said, “When he makes a play, and you go, ‘wow, how did he make that,’ ding-ding-ding, the Spidey senses are going off. All those things- the quickness, the instincts- they’ve been showing up in a big way.” Next season, Gordon is poised to make a strong case for a Pro Bowl selection due to more than just his spidey senses.
Kyler Gordon Is Set To Become A Pro Bowler Next Season
Kyler Gordon’s Breakout Year In 2023
There’s been so much buzz around the Chicago Bears that many people have forgotten about Kyler Gordon’s breakout season. Among slot cornerbacks in the NFL (100+ snaps), Gordon had two interceptions (tied for 1st), an 83.6 passer rating allowed (8th), 0.99 yards/snaps allowed (13th), 72.1 PFF grade in zone (11th), and had a 6.7% missed tackle rate (5th). During his rookie season, Gordon struggled due to constantly switching from nickel to outside cornerback. However, Gordon blossomed in the slot cornerback role last season, playing alongside All-Pro Jaylon Johnson and rookie corner Tyrique Stevenson.
#Bears CB Kyler Gordon among slot CBs in 2023 (100+ snaps):
• 2 INTs (T-1st)
• 83.6 passer rating allowed (8th)
• 0.99 yards/snap allowed (13th)
• 72.1 PFF grade in zone (11th)
• 6.7% missed tackle rate (5th)Kyler's quietly becoming one of the NFL's better slot corners.🕸 pic.twitter.com/IuB5i6XhPo
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) May 5, 2024
To add on, through the first 11 weeks of the 2023 NFL season, Kyler Gordon was ranked as the fifth-best slot defender in the NFL. Gordon received a 77 coverage score, 83 pass rush score, 74 tackle score, and an 80 slot overall score.
What Makes Chicago Bears Spider-Man Special
Head Coach Matt Eberflus mentioned three vital defensive positions for the team to perform at a high level. The three positions were the three-technique defensive tackle, weak-side linebacker, and the slot cornerback spot. The Bears sought a player capable of excelling as the primary slot defender. Someone who could effectively shut down opposing slot receivers. Kyler Gordon not only fulfilled this role but exceeded expectations. Rather than interceptions, Gordon’s standout attribute was his knack for disrupting plays.
Kyler Gordon was General Manager Ryan Poles’ first selection as the Bears GM. With no first-round pick, the Bears were happy to see the Washington corner fall to their spot at pick 39. Since then, Gordon has exceeded the expectations of many fans. Last season, Gordon showcased a newfound confidence and swagger on the field. It was evident he felt more comfortable in the system and was allowed to play without any constraints on the field.
“I’m just not thinking about it, honestly,” Gordon told NBC Sports Chicago. “I just feel like I’m able to control whatever I need to control.” Gordon showcased his confidence, especially during his game against the Arizona Cardinals last season. He maneuvered past both the Cardinals left tackle and left guard to sack Kyler Murray, who is not an easy quarterback to sack. Kyler also had the highest PFF grade on the team against the Cardinals, with a staggering 90.3. Kyler Gordon has the chance to become a Pro Bowler next season. With an improved team, he should be able to make more plays on the field and prove to the rest of the league why he’s the best slot cornerback in the NFL.
Main Photo: [Jamie Sabau] – USA Today Sports
