At his season-ending press conference, Ryan Poles made a bold statement when asked about the contract status of Bears' four-year CB Jaylon Johnson:
"Jaylon is not going anywhere!"
Ryan Poles during his end-of-year presser
Since then, Poles has been negotiating in good faith with Jaylon's agent. Johnson signed with Family For Life Sports Agency in 2023.
Johnson declared for the NFL Draft in 2020, foregoing his Senior year at the University of Utah, and has been one of the top defensive backs in the league. Last year, Johnson had his best season for Chicago, earning a trip to the Pro-Bowl. He had 4 interceptions, returning one for a TD against the Las Vegas Raiders. He also recorded one forced fumble and one fumble recovery in 2023.
The franchise tag for a cornerback in 2024 is reported to be $19.802 Million. Placing the franchise tag on Johnson allows extra time to sign Jaylon to a multi-year extension. The Bears would have until July 17th to work out a deal for the All Pro CB. If a deal cannot be agreed to by the mid-July deadline, Jaylon would play the 2024 season under the franchise tag.
Johnson finished the 2023 season with 31 tackles in addition to his career-high four interceptions. He was also PFF's highest rated cornerback through Week 17. Johnson ended the year as the second best CB, behind the Jets Sauce Gardner.
News and Notes
As we continue to see what develops for Justin Fields, it is his birthday today. Happy birthday, Justin!!
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