(670 The Score) The Bears are close to getting another key defender back in action.
Bears nickelback Kyler Gordon on Wednesday was designated for a return from injured reserve, opening a 21-day window for him to be activated. Gordon will practice with the Bears on Wednesday afternoon at Halas Hall.
Gordon has missed the Bears' last four games with a calf injury, which required him to be placed on injured reserve. He has been limited to just two games this season while also dealing with a hamstring injury early in the season.
The Bears are also awaiting the returns of Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson (groin) and linebacker T.J. Edwards (hand/hamstring), who each could potentially play against the Steelers on Sunday.
Johnson was designated for a return from injured reserve last Friday. He underwent core muscle surgery back in September. Johnson has played in just one game this season. He missed all of training camp with that groin injury, which he reaggravated in Chicago's loss at Detroit on Sept. 14.
Edwards has battled injuries to his hamstring and hand this season, playing in five games. Edwards suffered a hand fracture in Chicago's win at Cincinnati on Nov. 2 and underwent surgery days later.
Edwards will likely return with a cast on his injured hand, head coach Ben Johnson said, though the hamstring injury has been the lingering issue.
The NFC North-leading Bears (7-3) will host the Steelers (6-4) on Sunday at Soldier Field.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.