Chicago Bears Extend Jaylon Johnson
Photo Credit: Quinn Harris/Getty Images
CHICAGO (PSF)—The franchise tag didn’t last for long on star cornerback Jaylon Johnson. Just a few hours ago, the Chicago Bears and Jaylon Johnson agreed to a four-year, $76 million deal, with $54 million in guaranteed money.
Johnson, who previously was given the non-exclusive franchise tag just a few days ago, had an amazing season. This past year was the best of his career. He posted a career high four interceptions this past year and racked up 10 pass deflections which is the second highest of his career.
He also was named to the pro bowl for the first time in his career and was named second team all-pro at the CB position. With some arguments for him being worthy of the first team nominations.
Earlier on in the season, both sides couldn’t come to an agreement during the season. For the past three years, Johnson had only one interception in his three year career during his sophomore season.
Going into the trade deadline, just after the Bears acquired star defensive end, and future pro bowler Montez Sweat, Johnson still didn’t have an extension with the team.
Then, just a few days after the trade, Sweat was given a new four-year, $105 million contract extension. Going into the offseason, getting a contract extension was a big need for both Johnson, and the team. At the NFL Combine, General Manager Ryan Poles stated that negotiations with Johnson were “going well at this time.”
Now, Bears fans don’t have to worry about a pending star free agent on the team. Johnson is secure for another four years and has one of the most unique contract’s in the league. Exactly $43.8 million is fully guaranteed at signing which is the highest among cornerback contracts. He is also set to make $28 million in the first year of his new deal.
With still lingering questions about who will be next years quarterback, Bears fans can now rest easy knowing the possible best player on the team will be around for years to come.
