Earning respect in the NFL is never easy. That is because a sport with such huge rosters makes it more difficult to identify individual players as great unless their team is winning a lot. Jaylon Johnson hasn't enjoyed that benefit for his entire career with the Chicago Bears. In his five seasons, the cornerback has never experienced a winning record. It is doubly frustrating because Johnson wants to win and demands respect for his outstanding play over the past couple of years.
Sadly, even now, it's a struggle to get recognition. ESPN released its ranking for the best cornerbacks in the NFL, voted on by executives, scouts, and coaches. While Johnson did crack the top 10, he finished far lower than many feel he deserves.
8. Jaylon Johnson, Chicago Bears
Highest ranking: 4 | Lowest ranking: Unranked
Age: 26 | Last year's ranking: 8Johnson was one of the most consistent corners over the past two years with a combined six interceptions and 18 pass deflections. His ball production dipped slightly in 2024, but he was more disruptive around the line of scrimmage with seven tackles for loss.
"Really good zone awareness. Sticky," an NFL coordinator said. "Versatile skill set."
Ranking behind Patrick Surtain II and Sauce Gardner is one thing. Ranking behind Christian Gozalez (#6) and Jaycee Horn (#7) is another. Both have missed significant playing time over the past two years. For them to get preferential treatment over Johnson is insulting.
Jaylon Johnson rarely needs extra motivation.
He might be the most self-motivated player in the NFL. He has that Michael Jordan tendency of finding personal slights against him everywhere he looks. These rankings are almost certain to reach his eyes at some point. He'll have them pinned up in his locker or on his phone before the season begins. Most would be happy to be seen as one of the ten best players at a position in pro football. Jaylon Johnson is not one of them. He believes he is one of the best. If others don't believe it, then he'll just have to torture their teams on the field until they're forced to. There is no question Johnson is the best draft pick the Bears have made in the last ten years. He aims to enhance his legacy not just through statistical production but also team success. This year might be the best chance he's ever had.
