Jaylon Johnson Reacts Strongly After NFL Top 100 Snub
Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, fresh off a standout season, found himself inexplicably omitted from the NFL's Top 100 list, raising eyebrows across the league. Johnson, who earned second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid in 2023, was vocal about what he views as a significant oversight.
Johnson's 2023 season was nothing short of remarkable. Recording a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and a forced fumble, he played a pivotal role in the Bears' defense. Furthermore, he held opponents to a 50.9 passer rating when targeted and allowed just a 55% completion rate, metrics that underscore his effectiveness and consistency on the field.
Despite these impressive statistics, Johnson's name was conspicuously absent from the prestigious Top 100 list. This omission prompted a fiery reaction from the cornerback. "Bull----," Johnson said bluntly. He expressed disbelief, adding, "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]."
The NFL's Top 100 list did recognize two of Johnson's teammates: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. This only seemed to add to Johnson's frustration, considering his significant contributions during the season.
Johnson didn't mince words about the perceived injustice. "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 remarked, his competitive drive apparent even in his disappointment.
For Johnson, the snub is more than just a personal slight; it's a challenge that fuels his determination. He emphasized, "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's impressive performance in 2023 was further recognized in March when he secured a four-year, $76 million contract extension. Yet, despite this validation from the Bears organization, the lack of recognition on the league-wide stage clearly stings. For Johnson, seeing colleagues and even injured players make the list was a bitter pill to swallow. "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 fumed.
While the anger over his exclusion is palpable, Johnson is channeling it into motivation for the coming season. The snub, he declared, would "100%" serve as a catalyst as he gears up for another year with the Bears. In a league where recognition often goes hand-in-hand with performance, Johnson's resolve to prove his worth is stronger than ever.
As Johnson prepares for the new season, it's clear that he intends to let his play do the talking. His determination to prove himself will undoubtedly be one of the driving narratives for the Bears' defense in 2024. Fans and analysts alike will be watching with keen interest to see how this perceived slight impacts Johnson's performance on the field.