The Chicago Bears got their tight end with their first pick of the NFL draft at #43. So one had to expect they'd be looking at a defensive back with their second pick at #50. With Prince Amukamara having been released, the Bears had a sudden void at the cornerback position. Ryan Pace decided to fill it with Utah's Jaylon Johnson.
The consensus on this kid is that he would've gone in the 1st round this year. His mixture of athleticism, size, and physicality are what teams tend to covet at that position. He, unfortunately, suffered a string of unlucky shoulder injuries that knocked down his stock. While there is obvious risk involved, belief is he can be a stud if he stays on the field.
"Boundary bully with an improving skill set to clamp down on WR1s and limit their exposure to the football. Johnson is built for press, with the size, length and athleticism to force receivers to work harder getting into their routes. His eagerness to stay tight to the route leads to inconsistent balance and positioning from time to time, but his foot quickness and agility allow for rapid recoveries.
He's equipped to play the deep ball but needs to fully prove himself in that area. He's a physical press corner with off-man ability whose anticipation and ball skills should continue to help him make plays as a CB1 and first-round pick."
Chicago Bears defense is primed for a big year
Johnson is a good football player. If he can become an immediate contributor opposite Kyle Fuller, the Bears defense is geared up for a huge season. Don't forget they also added Robert Quinn in free agency to bolster their pass rush. Having two cornerbacks who can cover well would make that trio of him, Khalil Mack, and Akiem Hicks even more devastating. So it's hardly a surprise the Bears went with that pick.
Pace is known for not being afraid of taking risks. Johnson's injury concerns made it obvious. That said, shoulder issues of his nature don't debilitate his ability to cover. He played through it and still had a solid 2019 season with two interceptions including a pick-six and 11 passes defended. If he could do that while in pain, imagine when he's 100% healthy.
