Chicago Bears: Way-too-early prediction of 2021 Week 1 defensive starters

These cornerbacks are most likely to start Week 1 for the Chicago Bears

The NFL has seen a shift over the years as teams now play in the nickel more than they do their base defensive schemes. This means the defense has three corners on the field and one less linebacker. If a team does not have a strong third corner on the roster, then opposing offenses will look to tear apart and target that player. The cornerback position has the biggest question marks on the Bears’ defense now that Kyle Fuller is gone. Who will step up and start Week 1?

Starting Cornerbacks: Jaylon Johnson, Desmond Trufant and Kindle Vildor

One name getting plenty of recognition and questions about from the media is Kindle Vildor. Many fans thought Vildor did a solid job in 2020. He actually struggled quite a bit. He showed flashes at times during the playoff game versus the Saints, but he also allowed two touchdowns on only 17 targets. Receivers also caught 70% of their passes while Vildor was targeted. These are not good numbers. That said, it does seem that he brings the most upside behind Johnson and Trufant.

Jaylon Johnson is easily the CB1 on this defense. It will be imperative that he find a way to remain effective and stay healthy this season. Johnson lucked out not needing surgery on his shoulder again. With his injury history and Desmond Trufant’s injury history, the Bears will need some solid depth. If both stay healthy, then no worries as both will start all season. However, if one should get hurt, the team will need to count on Artie Burns, Duke Shelley and Thomas Graham, Jr.