Jaylon Johnson Snubbed from NFL's Top 100 List Despite Stellar Season
Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who had a remarkable year in the 2023 season, was surprisingly omitted from the NFL's Top 100 list. This snub comes despite Johnson's slew of accomplishments, which included earning second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid.
Johnson's performance on the field was impressive by any measure. He recorded a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and one forced fumble. Even more telling of his defensive prowess, Johnson held opponents to a 50.9 passer rating when targeted and allowed just a 55% completion rate. These stats illustrate a player who not only excels in his role but also significantly impacts the game.
While only two Bears players were recognized on the NFL's Top 100 list—wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82—Johnson's exclusion was a jarring oversight. The list’s credibility was further questioned by Johnson himself, especially given that New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who did not play in the season, was voted 92nd.
"Bull----," Johnson remarked, clearly frustrated with the results. "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, Aaron Rodgers didn't even play in the season and he was voted [92nd]."
Johnson's disbelief was palpable, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who follow the NFL closely. "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."
Such passion and determination from Johnson should come as no surprise. He recently secured a lucrative four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, an endorsement of his value to the Bears and recognition of his on-field talents. Yet the snub from the Top 100 list seems to undermine the respect he has rightfully earned.
"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 continued. "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 omission from the Top 100 list has added fuel to Johnson's fire, motivating him as he prepares for another season with the Bears. He stated emphatically that the snub would "100%" serve as motivation. "At the end of the day, I know the truth and it's alright, I got some more for them."
With a chip on his shoulder and another season on the horizon, Johnson is poised to prove his doubters wrong once again. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on the cornerback to see how he channels this newfound motivation into his performances on the field. Given his track record, it’s a safe bet that Jaylon Johnson won’t be overlooked for much longer.