The Chicago Bears welcomed 11 new rookies to the roster during the 2022 NFL draft, including second-round cornerback Kyler Gordon and safety Jaquan Brisker.
General manager Ryan Poles made it clear what the team’s weaknesses were — defensive back and offensive line — as evidenced by the combined seven draft selections between the two positions.
While many were expecting the Bears to draft a wide receiver with one of those second rounders, Poles used his first two draft picks to address the secondary. In the process, he landed two immediate starters in Gordon and Brisker, who shore up the defense’s biggest weakness from last season.
According to Pro Football Focus’ Ben Linsey, the Bears secondary is among the most improved units following the NFL draft.
Most improved units after the NFL Draft, per @PFF_Linsey pic.twitter.com/FZY5s1UBIO
— PFF (@PFF) May 2, 2022
Before the draft, the Bears had two glaring starting jobs up for grabs at cornerback and safety opposite Jaylon Johnson and Eddie Jackson. The additions of Gordon and Brisker all but answer those questions, and they’ll serve as immediate contributors for a secondary looking to rebound after a poor 2021 campaign.
Gordon, who never allowed a touchdown in 18 college starts, has the potential to develop into a lockdown corner at the NFL level. He’s a versatile cornerback — with experience playing outside and in the slot — but he projects to start on the outside opposite Johnson.
Brisker, who’s an extremely disciplined player, will step into the starting strong safety role opposite Jackson. Brisker has ball-hawking ability, and he’s someone who could wind up being the best player from this Bears draft class when all is said and done.
