Jaylon Johnson is in discussions with this team regarding a new contract.
On December 20, Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson expressed his preference to remain with the team that drafted him. Nevertheless, this sentiment hasn't deterred Pro Football Focus (PFF) from suggesting potential free agency destinations for Johnson.
On January 9, PFF identified the Pittsburgh Steelers as one of four potential landing spots for Johnson, aside from the Bears. In the 2023 season, Johnson had his most outstanding performance in the league, amassing career-high statistics: 4 interceptions, 10 pass defenses, 36 combined tackles, and 1 tackle for loss in his fourth NFL season. His remarkable performance earned him a spot in his first Pro Bowl.
Spotrac estimates Johnson, an unrestricted free agent this offseason, to be valued at approximately $78.7 million in the open market.
As for how Jaylon Johnson could fit with the Steelers, PFF's choice of the Steelers as a landing spot for him isn't new. Prior to the NFL trade deadline in October, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that Johnson had requested a trade. At that time, the Steelers were among three teams negotiating for Johnson's services.
However, despite trade rumors, Johnson ultimately remained in Chicago, as confirmed by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The other two teams expressed interest in Johnson were the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles, both of which, like the Steelers, were mentioned as potential landing spots for him by PFF on January 9.
While rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. has shown promise since the trade rumors, the Steelers could benefit from another starting cornerback alongside Porter. Fellow starter Levi Wallace, who struggled during the season, is set to become a free agent. Johnson, at 24 years old, would not only replace Wallace but also represent a significant upgrade.
PFF's Brad Spielberger, ranking Johnson as the top available cornerback in the upcoming free agency class, predicts a five-year, $78.72 million contract for the 24-year-old.
The question remains whether Johnson will indeed become a free agent. Ideally, he wishes to remain with the Bears, as he stated on December 20. However, he remains open to other options if a deal cannot be reached in Chicago.
Additionally, there is a concern regarding the Steelers' salary cap situation. Spotrac projects the Steelers to be $6.7 million over the salary cap when the offseason begins, while the Bears are expected to have $62 million in cap space. To create cap room, the Steelers could make certain roster moves, such as releasing quarterback Mitch Trubisky. Yet, it is uncertain whether they will make such aggressive cuts, particularly if they prioritize re-signing Mason Rudolph as their signal caller.
Even so, the Steelers may struggle to outbid the Bears for Johnson, as Chicago also has the option to use the franchise tag on him, a possibility Spielberger envisions.
Nevertheless, should Johnson become available in free agency, he remains a player of interest for the Steelers to watch.
| POLL | ||
10 JANVIER | 43 ANSWERS Jaylon Johnson is in discussions with this team regarding a new contract. Will the Bears be able to retain Jaylon Johnson? | ||
| Yes | 35 | 81.4 % |
| No | 8 | 18.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
