The Chicago Bears are shoring up their depleted secondary by lining up three defensive backs this week: safety Mark Perry and cornerbacks Mekhi Garner and Kaleb Hayes. Their signings come after a weekend preseason tilt with the Dolphins in which several Bears DBs left the game with injuries, and with Jaylon Johnson on the NFI list and Kyler Gordon and Zah Frazier dealing with health issues. The trio participated in a larger Monday tryout, underscoring Black-and-White’s intent to add depth for camp and early preseason rather than immediate long-term fixes. The moves signal Chicago’s plan to weather practice wear and ongoing camp injuries while depth players earn a chance to prove themselves.

Perry, Garner, and Hayes bring a mix of undrafted free-agent background and special-teams versatility. Perry, a 2024 UDFA from TCU who has bounced among practice squads; Garner, a 2023 UDFA who appeared in three games with Philadelphia and later spent time with the Renegades; Hayes, another 2023 UDFA with multiple NFL stops but no regular-season games yet—each adds potential depth and competition for snaps in a position group hit hard by injuries. With Johnson on NFI and the Bears cautious about training camp, these additions aim to stabilize the back end without disrupting player development as Chicago eyes a fuller health return in advance of deeper preseason work.

The Chicago Bears are facing a significant setback as three of their 2025 draft picks, including second-round selections Luther Burden III and Shemar Turner, are sidelined with injuries. In addition to these two, fifth-round pick Zah Frazier is also unavailable, complicating the team's depth at critical positions during the early days of training camp. The absence of these players raises concerns about their development and readiness for the upcoming season.

Burden, known for his explosive playmaking ability, was expected to contribute immediately, while Turner, a defensive talent, aimed to bolster the Bears’ defense. Frazier's absence further exacerbates the situation, as he was anticipated to provide depth. The coaching staff will need to adjust their strategies and maximize the potential of remaining players while closely monitoring the recovery timelines of the injured prospects.

The Chicago Bears made a significant move by selecting cornerback Zah Frazier in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. Standing at 6'3" with impressive 32⅞-inch arms, Frazier brings the size that NFL teams covet, especially in a position that's increasingly reliant on physicality. His journey through Southern Illinois and Coffeyville Community College to UTSA, where he finally became a starter, culminated in a breakout season with six interceptions in 2024.

Although cornerback isn't a pressing need for the Bears with a solidified secondary featuring names like Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon, Frazier's potential to develop into a reliable contributor is what excites the coaching staff. The Bears are banking on his physical attributes and the mentorship of cornerbacks coach Al Harris, who sees Frazier as a future star in the making.

Chicago Bears rookie minicamp showcased a promising start for Shemar Turner, whose aggressive playstyle is aligned with Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen's vision. Allen praised Turner's athleticism, noting his explosion and power, while also highlighting his passion for the game as a vital trait for success in the NFL. The Bears' defensive tackle lineup is bolstered with the addition of Turner, who joins veterans Gervon Dexter and Grady Jarrett, aiming to create a formidable front. Additionally, Allen expressed excitement about working with Turner as he adapts to the professional level.