Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson has found himself at the center of a heated debate following the release of the NFL's Top 100 list. Despite earning second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl nod in the 2023 season, Johnson was notably absent from the list, stirring strong reactions from the player himself.
Stellar Performance Met with Omission
Johnson's 2023 season statistics are impeccable. He recorded a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and forced one fumble. When targeted, he held opponents to a 50.9 passer rating and allowed just a 55% completion rate—metrics that underscore his impact on the field.
Yet, the NFL's Top 100 list recognized only two Bears' players: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. Johnson's exclusion is puzzling to many, given his stand-out performances and newly secured four-year, $76 million contract extension in March.
Johnson’s Outspoken Response
Unsurprisingly, Johnson was vocal about his disappointment. "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]," Johnson remarked.
The cornerback did not hold back, questioning the validity of the voting process. "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," he asserted.
A Chip on His Shoulder
For Johnson, the snub isn’t just about recognition; it touches on respect and validation from his peers and the broader football community. "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 stated. His passion and conviction are evident as he continues to publicly express his disbelief and frustration.
The oversight is expected to fuel Johnson's drive in the upcoming season. He openly acknowledged that the omission would "100%" motivate him. "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," he exclaimed.
Moving Forward
As Johnson continues to gear up for another season with the Bears, his exclusion from the Top 100 list serves as a potent source of motivation. His stats and on-field performances suggest he's ready to prove his doubters wrong. With an eye on outdoing his past achievements, Johnson appears set to make an even more significant impact, further solidifying his status as one of the league's premier cornerbacks.
Whether Jaylon Johnson's performance in the upcoming season will alter perceptions remains to be seen. However, if his past performances are any indicator, he is likely to continue being a thorn in the side of every offense he faces, proving that his absence from the Top 100 list was a glaring oversight.