The Chicago Bears open the 2022 NFL season today against the San Francisco 49ers, which kicks off the Matt Eberflus era.
It’ll be the first NFL regular-season action for a number of Bears rookies (minus receiver Velus Jones Jr., who’s doubtful for today’s game with a hamstring injury).
That includes top selections cornerback Kyler Gordon and safety Jaquan Brisker, who will make their first career NFL starts in their first action. Fifth-round rookie defensive end Dominique Robinson, who’s questionable with a knee injury, is also expected to see action.
“All three guys practice well,” said defensive coordinator Alan Williams. “They’ve assimilated into the defense well. The unknown is actually going out to see the play in a ballgame. But the way they’ve prepared, the way they’ve practiced has been really good.”
Gordon has flashed since he arrived in Chicago, and he’s expected to play a key role both outside and in the slot on defense. Williams said Gordon has the ability to be even-keeled through highs and lows.
“We call it being emotionally stable,” Williams said. “There may be a play when you miss a tackle. There may be a play where you intercept the ball. You still want to stay stable because the ballgame is a long ballgame. There are ebbs and flows.”
Brisker made a strong impression in the preseason debut, but he was sidelined with a thumb injury for the reminder of the preseason. He’s officially back and ready to play at strong safety. But there was never a doubt that Brisker would be ready for Week 1.
“That’s a good thing when a player like that knows his body,” Williams said. “That’s what we ask the guys to do. We say, ‘hey, you’re a professional. No one has been with your body longer than you have. Get to know your body. Get to know how you function.’ It’s good to see he is a mentally tough kid.”
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