Chicago Bears' Jaylon Johnson Reacts to NFL Top 100 Snub
Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, a key player in the Bears' defensive lineup, was conspicuously absent from the NFL's Top 100 list, a ranking that annually highlights the league's top performers. Johnson, who earned second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl appearance in the 2023 season, expressed his frustration and disbelief at the omission.
Johnson's standout season included a career-high four interceptions, with one resulting in his first pick-six, and one forced fumble. His defensive prowess was further highlighted by holding opponents to a mere 50.9 passer rating when targeted and limiting them to just a 55% completion rate. Despite these impressive statistics, Johnson did not find his name on the league's Top 100 list.
Reacting to the snub, Johnson did not mince words. "Bull----," he exclaimed, encapsulating his sentiments about the exclusion. He further vented his frustration, saying, "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's reference to Rodgers, who missed the entire season yet still made the list, underscores his perplexity and disappointment.
Moments of recognition like Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections typically affirm a player's elite status in the league. Johnson's accolades and statistical achievements in the 2023 season solidified his position as one of the premier cornerbacks. Yet, his absence from the Top 100 list calls into question the criteria and decision-making process behind the 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," Johnson stated, reflecting his determination to prove his worth even further.
In the 2023 NFL Top 100 list, only two Bears’ players made the cut: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. Johnson's omission becomes even more glaring when considering the impact he had on the field compared to his peers who were honored.
Johnson, who secured a four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, holds a strong conviction of his abilities and contributions to the team. Expressing a sense of disrespect, he voiced, "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 best players that they play against."
Echoing a sentiment of disbelief, Johnson added, "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." His remarks clearly indicate feeling undervalued despite his evident capabilities and achievements on the field.
As the Bears look forward to another season, Johnson's resolve has only been strengthened by this snub. The cornerback confirmed that the omission from the Top 100 list would "100%" motivate him as he gears up for another year with the Bears. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this perceived slight fuels his performance in the 2024 season.
Johnson's journey will be a compelling narrative to follow, particularly as he channels his frustration into a quest to prove his critics and evaluators wrong. His determination and talent signal that his exclusion from the Top 100 list is likely a temporary oversight, one that may well be rectified in the seasons to come.