### Bears Gear Up for Playoffs with Key Player Returns The Chicago Bears are making significant strides as they prepare for their wild-card playoff game against the Green Bay Packers. The team has designated cornerback Kyler Gordon and left tackle Braxton Jones for return from injured reserve, allowing them to participate in practice ahead of the crucial matchup. This development comes as the Bears aim to bolster their roster after a season plagued by injuries, particularly on defense. Gordon has been sidelined due to a groin injury, while Jones has been recovering from a knee issue. Their potential return could provide much-needed reinforcements as the Bears look to secure their first playoff victory since 2011 against their long-time rivals, the Packers [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/bears-designate-cb-kyler-gordon-190315341.html][https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/chicago-bears-designate-kyler-gordon-211514288.html]. ### Breakdown of the Bears' Injury Updates and Game Preparation 1. **Player Designations**: - Kyler Gordon and Braxton Jones have been designated for return from injured reserve, opening a 21-day practice window for both players [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/chicago-bears-open-practice-windows-195700620.html]. - Gordon has played only three games this season due to injuries, while Jones has been out since Week 8 [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_designate_cb_kyler_gordon_lt_braxton_jones_for_return/s1_14819_43294735]. 2. **Impact on the Team**: - The return of Gordon is particularly crucial for the Bears' defense, which has struggled with injuries throughout the season. His experience and skills could enhance their performance against the Packers' passing attack [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_open_practice_window_for_cb_kyler_gordon_ol_braxton_jones/s1_17049_43294730]. - Jones's potential return could also stabilize the offensive line, especially with rookie Ozzy Trapilo currently sidelined [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_reveal_huge_announcement_before_facing_packers_in_playoffs/s1_17081_43294866]. 3. **Coaching Insights**: - Head Coach Ben Johnson expressed optimism about Gordon's return, indicating that the team is hopeful for his participation in the playoff game [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/ben-johnson-shares-latest-injury-215419565.html]. - The Bears have been managing a challenging injury list, and the return of these key players could significantly impact their playoff chances [https://chicago.suntimes.com/bears/2026/01/06/bears-open-practice-window-for-cb-kyler-gordon-ol-braxton-jones-head-of-packers-game]. ### Supporting Data on Player Performance and Injury History - **Kyler Gordon**: - Career Stats: 214 tackles, 5 interceptions, 5 fumble recoveries, and 2.5 sacks in 45 games [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_open_practice_window_for_cb_kyler_gordon_ol_braxton_jones/s1_17049_43294730]. - Injury History: Sidelined with a groin injury since December, previously on IR for calf issues [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_designate_2_players_to_return_from_injured_reserve/s1_14819_43294735]. - **Braxton Jones**: - Career Stats: 46 games played with 44 starts since being drafted in 2022 [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_designate_cb_kyler_gordon_lt_braxton_jones_for_return/s1_14819_43294735]. - Injury History: On IR since Week 8 due to a knee injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/chicago-bears-designate-2-players-191137665.html]. ### Conclusion: Bears' Playoff Prospects Enhanced by Key Returns In summary, the Chicago Bears are poised to enhance their playoff prospects with the potential return of cornerback Kyler Gordon and left tackle Braxton Jones. Their experience and skills could be pivotal in the upcoming wild-card game against the Green Bay Packers. The Bears have faced numerous challenges this season due to injuries, but the return of these players could provide the necessary boost to secure a long-awaited playoff victory. 1. **Key Players Designated for Return**: Kyler Gordon and Braxton Jones are back in practice. 2. **Impact on Team Dynamics**: Their return could significantly improve both the defense and offensive line. 3. **Coaching Optimism**: Head Coach Ben Johnson is hopeful for their participation in the playoff game. 4. **Historical Context**: The Bears aim to win their first playoff game since 2011 against a familiar rival. The Bears' ability to capitalize on these returns will be crucial as they face the Packers in a highly anticipated playoff showdown [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/chicago-bears-designate-kyler-gordon-211514288.html][https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_reveal_huge_announcement_before_facing_packers_in_playoffs/s1_17081_43294866].