Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson has found himself at the center of widespread debate and controversy following his unexpected omission from the NFL's Top 100 list. Despite earning second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid in the 2023 season, Johnson failed to secure a spot among the league's elite players.
A Stellar Season Overlooked
Johnson's performance in the 2023 season was nothing short of remarkable. He recorded a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and forced one fumble. The cornerback also held opponents to a 50.9 passer rating when targeted, allowing just a 55% completion rate. Such impressive statistics usually guarantee a spot in the Top 100, making his omission even more puzzling.
Adding to the surreal nature of his exclusion, Johnson secured a lucrative four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, further signaling the Bears' commitment to their star cornerback. Yet, despite these accolades and achievements, the NFL's Top 100 acknowledged only two Bears players: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82.
Johnson Speaks Out
Unsurprisingly, the snub hasn't sat well with Johnson. Expressing his frustration, he didn't mince words when reacting to the news. "Bull----," he said initially, before elaborating on his disbelief. "It's bull----. There ain't no way. I don't know how you make Pro Bowl, All-Pro and not [be] a Top 100 guy. I could've been 101 I guess, but goddamn, [New York Jets quarterback] Aaron Rodgers didn't even play in the season and he was voted [92nd]."
His confusion and frustration are evident in his comparison to Rodgers, who was sidelined for much of the season yet still made the list. Johnson's ire wasn’t just directed at the media but also at the players who vote on these rankings. "I mean, hey, everybody makes mistakes, it ain't just the media that do it. Players clearly -- if they voted for it -- they made some god damn mistakes. But it is what it is. At the end of the day I know the truth and it's alright, I got some more for them."
A Personal Slap in the Face
For a player who prides himself on his on-field dominance, the omission feels particularly disrespectful. "It's disrespectful because I go out there, line up and I know receivers go out there and can't say that I'm not one of the best players that they play against," Johnson remarked. His passion and dedication to the sport shine through his candid commentary, underlining his bewilderment at being overlooked.
Johnson's frustration also converges with his determination. "So I mean, whatever it is, it happened. Doing it wouldn't have moved me to where I'm complacent, but just to see it -- ain't no way there are 100 guys who are better. Ain't no way. Especially guys who didn't play, who were hurt, played half- ain't no f---ing way. Excuse my language. Ain't no way. Ain't no way."
A Source of Motivation
Despite the slight, Johnson isn’t letting it dampen his resolve. On the contrary, the snub will serve as fuel for his ambitions in the coming season. The cornerback stated unequivocally that such disrespect would "100%" motivate him as he gears up for another year with the Bears. With a point to prove, Johnson is poised to use this perceived slight as a driving force for further excellence on the field.
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Jaylon Johnson, a player determined to let his performance provide the ultimate rebuttal to any skeptics. Only time will tell if the NFL's Top 100 list makers will regret the oversight, but one thing is certain: Johnson is on a mission, and he’s not backing down.