Jaylon Johnson Reacts to NFL Top 100 Omission
Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson has every reason to feel slighted after being omitted from the NFL's Top 100 list, despite an impressive 2023 season. Johnson, who earned second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid, recorded a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and one forced fumble. With opponents held to a 50.9 passer rating when targeting him and only a 55% completion rate, Johnson’s exclusion from the Top 100 has left both fans and analysts questioning the voting process.
Johnson did not mince words when expressing his dissatisfaction. "Bull----," he said plainly, reflecting his frustration. "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 defensive ace's shock is understandable when comparing his stats and achievements to the players who made the list. The NFL's Top 100 recognized only two Bears’ players: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. While both Allen and Sweat are deserving, Johnson’s standout season seemed to warrant a spot among the league's elite.
Johnson, who secured a four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, was clearly astonished by the oversight. "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." His remarks suggest a strong resolve to prove his critics wrong on the field.
The cornerback’s critique extended to his peers, emphasizing the undeniable impact he has had on the game. "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 asserted, pointing out the views of those who face him every game.
Johnson’s resolve to overcome the perceived snub is evident. "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."
As Johnson gears up for another year with the Bears, he has openly acknowledged that the snub will be a motivating factor. The omission from the NFL's Top 100 will “100%” serve as fuel for the coming season. With his sights set on proving the doubters wrong, fans can expect an even more driven and focused Jaylon Johnson on the field.
His remarks and achievements underscore the often subjective nature of awards and lists, sparking conversations around the metrics used to evaluate and compare player performances. As the new season approaches, the cornerback will be a player to watch, if only to see how his undeniable talent translates once more into on-field success. The Bears and their fans will be hoping that this added motivation will push Johnson to new heights, further establishing him as one of the premier cornerbacks in the league.