In a stunning omission that has caught the attention of many in the football community, Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson finds himself left off the NFL's Top 100 list, despite a standout performance in the 2023 season. Johnson, whose excellent play secured him second-team All-Pro honors, a Pro Bowl bid, and a lucrative four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, did not mince words expressing his disbelief and frustration at the snub.
Proving His Mettle
In 2023, Johnson delivered a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and one forced fumble. His defensive prowess was evident as he held opponents to a mere 50.9 passer rating when targeted and limited completions to a modest 55% rate. These stellar statistics, however, were not enough to earn him a spot among the league's elite in the Top 100 list.
"Bull----," Johnson remarked candidly when asked about the omission. "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]."
Questioning the Process
Johnson's frustration is palpable, especially when considering some of the players who made the list despite a lack of significant playing time. "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 added.
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. The exclusion of Johnson, who has been a cornerstone of the Bears' defense, raises questions about the criteria and the voting process employed in selecting the Top 100 players.
Fuel for the Fire
Rather than letting the omission bring him down, Johnson sees it as motivation. "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," Johnson asserted. "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."
Johnson's snub will "100%" serve as additional motivation as he prepares for another season. His determination to silence the doubters and prove his worth is clear, and with a substantial contract extension underscoring the Bears' faith in his abilities, he is poised to continue making a significant impact on the field.
As fans and pundits dissect the snub, Johnson's words resonate as a rallying cry for both himself and his supporters. It's apparent that his journey is far from over, and his quest for recognition will fuel his on-field exploits in the seasons to come.