The Bears' decision to tag Jaylon Johnson is the latest anticipated step in lengthy negotiations that must come to a resolution.
On Tuesday, as anticipated, the Bears placed the franchise tag on cornerback Jaylon Johnson before the 3 p.m. CT deadline, as confirmed by a source to NBC Sports Chicago. CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones and The Athletic's Kevin Fishbain were the first to report this development.
This move was expected in what has become a prolonged saga for Johnson and the Bears.
Last summer, Johnson entered training camp seeking a contract below the market's top tier, citing his lack of takeaways and accolades as reasons not to demand top dollar.
However, his stance shifted after a season where he earned Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors. Johnson exceeded expectations, demonstrating versatility in head coach Matt Eberflus' defense, generating more takeaways, and emerging as a leader for the defense.
Johnson took a gamble on himself, and it paid off.
Now, it's time for general manager Ryan Poles and the Bears to acknowledge this and compensate their homegrown cornerback accordingly.
Poles indicated at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine that contract negotiations were progressing positively, with the Bears presenting a substantial offer in terms of cash flow and guarantees.
However, it's evident that the Bears and Johnson's camp still need more time to reach a consensus.
Johnson, 24, has shown significant improvement, particularly with four interceptions this past season and leading all cornerbacks in yards allowed (195) and passer rating against (33.3), according to Pro Football Focus.
He is a vital component of the Bears' burgeoning defense. His absence in the Week 18 loss to the Green Bay Packers underscored his importance, as the defense struggled without him.
Following the game, defensive end DeMarcus Walker emphasized the need for Johnson to be appropriately compensated.
Now, the Bears and Johnson have until July 17 to negotiate a long-term contract. Otherwise, Johnson will play the 2024 season under the one-year, $19.8 million tender.
The decision to tag Johnson on Tuesday wasn't surprising, but it prolongs a saga that should have concluded earlier.
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6 MARS | 8 ANSWERS The Bears' decision to tag Jaylon Johnson is the latest anticipated step in lengthy negotiations that must come to a resolution. Is Jaylon Johnson a top-10 CB? | ||
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