The Chicago Bears were seemingly very close to trading star cornerback Jaylon Johnson at this year’s trade deadline. Instead, amidst tenuous negotiations over his future, they held onto the 24-year-old building block. Johnson proceeded to finish with one of the finest seasons of his career while playing like arguably the NFL’s best corner, and put himself in an excellent position as free agency nears this March.
With Johnson earning his first career Pro Bowl appearance, he was asked about his personal plans for the future during Saturday’s practice. As he told NFL.com, Johnson didn’t mince his words. He loves playing for the Bears in Chicago, but getting paid and properly rewarded for his services is just as important.
“Heart’s definitely in Chicago, mind’s definitely on the money,” Johnson said “So, I mean, we’ll figure out if we can make them both come together and get something done. I’m looking forward to see what’s to come.”
There is nothing subtle about that quote.
Johnson played so well down the stretch for a rising defense that he knows he’s earned a massive long-term commitment. The Second-Team All-Pro doesn’t have to play it coy in public, and the Bears know that, too. It’s worth noting that in the event of a failed negotiation with Johnson in the coming weeks, Chicago could simply elect to use its only franchise tag, which would give the corner an $18.4 million salary next season, per Over The Cap.
It seems evident both parties would rather nip this situation in the bud and finally find a middle ground with a lucrative deal. We’ll see whether Johnson and the Bears can come to amicable terms before the March 5 tag deadline.