A Potential Trade Scenario for the Chicago Bears Grows Increasingly Likely
When it comes to potential trades involving the Chicago Bears, fans generally anticipate player additions to fortify the roster, especially regarding pass rush assistance. Given the team's current needs, it may seem unlikely for them to offload existing talent. Yet, General Manager Ryan Poles has already challenged this assumption with his recent move, sending Roquan Smith to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for 2nd and 5th round picks. And we must give a shoutout to Erik Lambert for diligently covering this story.
Never underestimate Poles' willingness to make similar moves. The spotlight now shifts towards another possible candidate for trade - Jaylon Johnson. Certain warning signs have emerged: Johnson is in the last year of his rookie contract, his 2022 performance was not particularly stellar, the current regime did not draft him, and he is now noticeably absent from the OTAs. As one of two players missing from practice without a health reason, Johnson's absence from voluntary OTAs may be the initial signal of an impending contract dispute.
The Chicago Bears don't appear to be in a hurry to extend his contract. It seems more like they're bracing themselves for Johnson's eventual exit. The drafting of Kyler Gordon in the second round last year didn't ring any bells initially. However, this perspective shifted significantly when Poles picked up Tyrique Stevenson (2nd round) and Terell Smith (5th round) recently. Both are recognized as outside cornerbacks - the same position Johnson holds. While their drafting might not have been a deliberate move to usher Johnson out, they certainly provide the Bears a safety net should Johnson play hardball in contract talks.
The Bears are open to the idea of extending Johnson's contract, but they won't be cornered into one-sided negotiations. The 24-year-old doesn't hold much bargaining power. Though Johnson's coverage skills were commendable last season, the coaching staff highly values turnover generation and tackling - areas where Johnson didn't excel with zero interceptions and only 35 tackles last year. In contrast, Gordon secured three interceptions and made 71 tackles. Add to this the fact that Cole Kmet and Darnell Mooney are also vying for extensions, it seems Johnson could well be left out in the cold.
| POLL | ||
26 MAI | 220 ANSWERS A Potential Trade Scenario for the Chicago Bears Grows Increasingly Likely Will Jaylon Johnson be dealt before the season? | ||
| Yes | 107 | 48.6 % |
| No | 113 | 51.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
