LAKE FOREST, Ill. (104.3 The Score) -- Bears nickelback Kyler Gordon is dealing with yet another injury setback, this one leaving his team frustrated.
Gordon will open training camp on the physically-unable-to-perform list while working back from a calf injury. Bears general manager Ryan Poles said there's no clear timeline for Gordon's return, though the team is already considering its available options at that key position.
"A little bit of a repetitive situation that we've got to get fixed," Poles said Tuesday as the Bears reported for training camp. "And then when he gets back, he's going to have to earn that trust back and that dependability. Because we've got to put all the guys in a good position to be successful, and the up-and-down moving guys around is really tough. So, he'll have to earn that back when he gets back."
Gordon, 26, was limited to just three regular-season games last season. He has played 45 of a possible 68 games over four years in the league.
When healthy, Gordon has been a key player for the Bears' defensive identity. That did not happen last season – then carried into the offseason with another setback.
"He's got to get right," Poles said. "And I think the important thing that we've all talked about is when he gets back, we need him to stay back.
"We've got to keep that consistent as we move forward."
The Bears will likely turn to veteran defensive back Cam Lewis in place of Gordon. The team will hold its first practice of training camp on Wednesday morning at Halas Hall.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson kept his message simple for Gordon.
"Get healthy," Johnson said.
The Bears do not expect a lengthy absence for veteran linebacker T.J. Edwards (calf), who suffered a minor injury while training for camp. Rookie linebacker Keyshaun Elliott (back) and safety Elijah Hicks (shin) are also facing minor absences to start camp.
The Bears see tackle Ozzy Trapilo (knee), defensive end Shemar Turner (knee) and linebacker Noah Sewell (knee) progressing after offseason surgeries.
Chris Emma covers the Bears and the Chicago sports scene for 104.3 The Score.
