Jaylon Johnson Misses NFL's Top 100 List Despite Stellar Season
The NFL unveiled its annual Top 100 list and it was nothing short of a shock to see Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson omitted. Johnson, who had an outstanding 2023 season, was left off a list that recognized only two Bears players: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82.
The snub was particularly surprising given Johnson's accolades and performance during the 2023 campaign. He earned second-team All-Pro honors and secured a Pro Bowl bid, achievements that typically cement a player's spot among the league's elite. Johnson recorded a career-high four interceptions, including his first career pick-six, and added a forced fumble to his stat line. His impact on the field was undeniable, as he held opponents to a mere 50.9 passer rating when targeted and allowed just a 55% completion rate, making him one of the toughest covers in the league.
Johnson didn't mince words when asked about his omission from the Top 100 list. "Bull----," he said bluntly. "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]."
The cornerback's frustration was palpable. "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.
Feeling slighted by his exclusion, Johnson emphasized how he believes his presence on the field speaks for itself. "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," he stated. "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."
Despite the setback, Johnson remains undeterred and highly motivated. The cornerback, who secured a four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, is using the snub as fuel for his fire. He stated unequivocally that the perceived slight would "100%" motivate him as he gears up for another year with the Bears.
As Johnson prepares for the upcoming season, his exclusion from the NFL's Top 100 list will undoubtedly be a chip on his shoulder. His determination to prove his worth continues to burn brightly. With a defensive prowess that can't be ignored, Jaylon Johnson is aiming to show the league—and its voters—just how mistaken they were.