GM Ryan Poles cleared two key hurdles this year with contract extensions. He secured tight end Cole Kmet on a new deal, ensuring the offense has one of its key weapons. Then, after trading for Montez Sweat in October, he also locked up the stud pass rusher to a four-year extension. Those are some nice victories for the Chicago Bears. Now, one big hurdle remains. They have to figure out what to do about Jaylon Johnson. Poles thought he was making progress last month with the cornerback’s representatives. He was disabused of that notion when Johnson requested a trade.
Still, Poles was undeterred. After the deadline passed, he made it clear he’s committed to working out a deal with Johnson. For his part, the cornerback has maintained he’d like to stay in Chicago. However, it has to come at a price he deems worthy of his ability. The 24-year-old views himself as one of the best in the league. His decision to table talks until after the season ends suggests he’s trying to improve his negotiating leverage. As things stand, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN offered a price range the two sides are looking at.
“Negotiations between Johnson and the Bears cratered before the trade deadline, and Johnson holds leverage if the Bears want to keep him. Chicago can franchise tag him at somewhere above $19 million or come with a strong offer. Johnson has been an impressive cover man for the Bears, and the Eagles are among many teams that need that. Two free agencies ago, corners like Carlton Davis III and J.C. Jackson commanded deals worth between $14.8-16.5 million per season. That kind of pact could be coming for Johnson — and with interest, due to cap inflation.”
Jaylon Johnson already has a number in mind.
The problem is the Bears aren’t prepared to pay him that number. It was likely the same with all the teams he spoke to before the trade deadline. He’s stated he wants to get paid as one of the best. Rumors suggest somewhere around Trevon Diggs money ($19.4 million). There was no way Chicago could pay him that with only three career interceptions. Nobody disputes Johnson is one of the better cover corners in the league, but this business is built around production. His hasn’t been there enough.
The hope is he can change that over the final seven games. Sweat seems to have invigorated the pass rush as hoped. A few extra pressures and sacks during games might enable Jaylon Johnson to get his hands on one or two more passes. Interceptions equal money. That is the reality. Poles has kept the line of communication open. He’s ready to negotiate when the time comes. Johnson is taking the gamble that he can improve his bargaining power. It should be a fun subplot to watch.
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