A majority of the focus on the Chicago Bears offseason has centered on the future of quarterback Justin Fields and whether or not the team will build around him or the No. 1 overall pick. However, All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson also faced an uncertain future in Chicago.
Johnson, the 50th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, put together a breakout season in 2023. The 6-foot cornerback earned his first Pro Bowl selection and was named second-team All-Pro. It came at the perfect time, with his contract expiring.
- Jaylon Johnson stats (2023): 50.9 QB rating allowed in coverage, 55.2% completion rate allowed, 8.7 yards per completion surrendered, 4.8 yards per target, 4 interceptions
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While Johnson made it clear he wanted to stay in Chicago, he also emphasized the importance of getting paid what he deserved. The All-Pro cornerback wanted to become one of the highest-paid NFL players, leaving the Bears with limited choices. Either they franchise-tagged Johnson, signed him to a long-term deal, or let him test the market in NFL free agency. It appears the club made its decision.
Addressing reporters at the 2024 NFL Combine, Bears’ general manager Ryan Poles said the team is already in the process of getting a deal done with Johnson. Based on his comments, an agreement with the top cornerback is going to be reached.
“We are in the process of getting a deal done with Jaylon Johnson. Process is going well. We’re excited to get a deal done.”
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles on Jaylon Johnson contract talks
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Poles’ comments certainly seem to take the franchise tag off the table. It would’ve prevented Johnson from hitting the open market, but it also would’ve given him a fully guaranteed salary of $19.802 million in 2024. Instead, the two sides appear poised to finalize a multi-year deal.
While the deal isn’t official, Poles’ statement effectively takes Johnson off the market barring a sudden breakdown in talks. With Johnson staying in Chicago and fellow top cornerback L’Jarius Sneed likely staying with the Kansas City Chiefs, the cornerback market could dry up before NFL free agency even opens.
