CB Jaylon Johnson, a potential free agent, desires to remain with the Bears
Chicago’s Lake Forest — Cornerback Jaylon Johnson, a pending free agent, stated his intention to sign a new contract with the Chicago Bears during the offseason, seven weeks after the team and the Bears were unable to reach an agreement on a contract extension.
“I wish to remain here,” declared Johnson. In the end, if something does not work out, I am open to exploring other options, even though I really want to resolve this [with Chicago] first. But that is just because I would really like to stay here.
“I think we are creating something unique as well, especially with the guys in the changing area. I believe I will not be able to find it anyplace else. I want to stay there and keep improving and building things.
When the NFL’s trade deadline for players expired on October 31, the 24-year-old cornerback asked for permission to pursue a trade after not receiving an extension. In an attempt to avoid losing Johnson, Bears general manager Ryan Poles asked for “a late first and into early second [round draft pick] as compensation.”
Last month, Poles stated, “That did not happen.” “We are still interested in signing a contract. We are still flexible, but I know we will follow Jaylon’s lead on how he wants to approach that.
Four interceptions this season, tied with a few other defenders for the fourth-most league-wide, tie Johnson for the team lead in interceptions along with linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. In victories over Minnesota and Detroit following the trade deadline, he racked up two of his four interceptions.
The cornerback believes that his “very good” play this season will help him in the offseason when he goes to negotiate.
Johnson declared, “I would say that I have added some money to the value.” In the end, I feel like I have little control over the situation, but we will see how it plays out.
If the two sides are unable to come to an agreement in the offseason, Chicago may choose to use the franchise or transition tag on Johnson. Cornerbacks have a projected franchise tag worth $18.4 million and a transition tag worth $15.9 million. Both are fully guaranteed one-year contracts.
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