The storied franchise of the Chicago Bears saw one of its brightest defensive stars, cornerback Jaylon Johnson, conspicuously omitted from the NFL's Top 100 list. Despite a stellar 2023 season that earned him second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid, Johnson was left off the list in what many, including Johnson himself, see as a glaring oversight.
During the 2023 season, Johnson delivered an outstanding performance backed by impressive statistics. He recorded a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and registered one forced fumble. His defensive prowess was further highlighted by holding opponents to a passer rating of just 50.9 when targeted and allowing a mere 55% completion rate.
Questioning the Judgement
Johnson didn’t hold back his feelings about the snub. "Bull----," he exclaimed. "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 frustration is palpable, and it’s easy to understand, given the caliber of season he had.
The NFL's Top 100 list did recognize two Chicago Bears players: wide receiver Keenan Allen, positioned at No. 51, and defensive end Montez Sweat, at No. 82. Nevertheless, Johnson's omission remains a point of contention, not just for Bears fans but for many football analysts who saw his tremendous impact on the field.
A Chip on His Shoulder
Johnson is keenly aware of the competitive edge his performance grants him and what the snub represents. "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 reflected.
Deeply insulted, Johnson emphasized the respect he commands from opposing receivers. "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."
Determined to Prove a Point
Johnson is unequivocal about his position in the league. "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."
The perceived lack of recognition is doing nothing but fueling Johnson's fire as he prepares for another season with the Bears. He has vowed that the snub would "100%" motivate him moving forward.
Looking Forward
Despite his omission from the list, Johnson's future remains promising. His prowess on the field was rewarded when he secured a lucrative four-year, $76 million contract extension in March. With the fresh motivation of proving his doubters wrong, Bears fans can expect Johnson to elevate his game further.
In the often politically charged arena of the NFL, where recognition can be as much about narrative as it is about numbers, Johnson's situation is a reminder of the contentious, subjective nature of such lists. Nevertheless, Johnson’s focus remains unshakable. His 2023 season firmly established him as one of the premier cornerbacks, and his determination to be recognized as such is stronger than ever. The coming seasons will undoubtedly be compelling as Jaylon Johnson continues to prove that his exclusion from the NFL's Top 100 was a significant oversight.