Bears bring CB Kyler Gordon off injured reserve

The Bears are getting some defensive reinforcements just in time for Saturday night’s playoff game against the rival Packers.

As expected, cornerback Kyler Gordon was activated from injured reserve before the 3 p.m. Saturday deadline to do so. Gordon missed the last four games because of a groin injury he suffered warming up for the Bears’ first rivalry game in early December at Lambeau Field.

The Bears had an open 53-man roster spot in which to put Gordon. They also promoted tight end Nikola Kalinic and linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin; both figure to play special teams.

It’s unclear whether the Bears can count Gordon him to play a full game Saturday. They need help at slot corner, though, after ruling out C.J. Gardner-Johnson with a concussion he suffered in Week 18 against the Lions. The Bears could also lean on Tyrique Stevenson in the defensive backfield despite him not playing a single snap a week ago.

The Bears planned on Gordon being an integral part of their defense after giving him a contract extension last year. Gordon struggled with injuries all year, including being added to the injury report the day before the season opener with a calf injury. He’s played only three games this season because of various injuries.