Vikings Rivals Secure a Long-Term Deal with Star CB
Josh Frey
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Back in October, it seemed like the Chicago Bears and cornerback Jaylon Johnson were headed for a separation.
The Vikings’ rivals gave their star cornerback permission to seek a trade at the deadline, but ultimately no trade could be agreed upon. Just about five months later, it appears that Johnson is set to remain in a Bears uniform for years to come as he and Chicago agreed to a four-year contract extension on Thursday.
Vikings Rivals Secure Long-Tern Deal with Star CB
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the news on Thursday afternoon, tweeting, “Sources: The #Bears and Pro Bowl CB Jaylon Johnson are finalizing a 4-year, $76M new contract that makes him one of the game’s highest paid at his position. Instead of the franchise tag, Chicago locks in their superstar long-term, another key piece on D.”
Johnson was placed on the franchise tag earlier this week, which would have paid him $19.8 million this season. Instead, the cornerback now gets a long-term contract and will be paid an average of $19 million per year for his services.
The cornerback was selected by the Bears in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and has spent each of his first four seasons in Chicago. Over those seasons, he has recorded 161 tackles, four tackles for loss, 41 passes defended, five interceptions, and three forced fumbles.
Johnson has primarily served as a starter through his career, but 2023 proved to be a breakout season for the cornerback. Among cornerbacks to play at least 500 snaps, PFF gave him the highest grade with a 90.8. His coverage grade of 91.0 also paced the league, just ahead of Sauce Gardner.
He recorded four of his five career interceptions this past year, including one against the Minnesota Vikings during Chicago’s 12-10 victory in Week 12. He also recorded a season-high three passes defended during that victory over the Vikings. Johnson was named a Pro Bowler and second-team All Pro for his efforts.
Not only does this contract mean that Johnson will be playing against the Vikings twice a year for the next four seasons, but it also helps set the cornerback market for this offseason. This could be important for the Vikings as they look to solidify their defense in 2024.
L’Jarius Sneed has been considered a possible trade target for Minnesota, and they will likely need to give the current Chiefs CB a long-term deal if they are to acquire him via trade. Johnson’s contract gives an idea of what that deal could need to look like.
Editor’s Note: Statistics for this article were found via Pro Football Focus and Pro Football Reference.
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Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.