Jaylon Johnson's Exclusion from NFL's Top 100 List Raises Eyebrows
In a season filled with incredible personal achievements, Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson finds himself notably absent from the NFL's prestigious Top 100 list, a decision that has left many scratching their heads. Johnson's omission comes despite his stellar 2023 season, where his performance earned him second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid.
Johnson's cornerback prowess was on full display throughout the season. He racked up a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, alongside one forced fumble. His defensive stats were impressive, holding opponents to a mere 50.9 passer rating when targeted and allowing just a 55% completion rate. Even with such remarkable statistics, Johnson did not find a spot on the Top 100 list.
Expressing his frustration, Johnson didn't hold back. "Bull----," he said succinctly when asked about the snub. Elaborating further, he added, "It's bull----. There ain't no way. I don't know how you make Pro Bowl, All-Pro and not [be] a Top 100 guy. I could've been 101 I guess, but goddamn, [New York Jets quarterback] Aaron Rodgers didn't even play in the season and he was voted [92nd]."
It's clear Johnson feels a sense of disrespect, especially considering his contributions and consistency on the field. "It's disrespectful because I go out there, line up and I know receivers go out there and can't say that I'm not one of [the] best players that they play against," he asserted.
The frustration is palpable, but Johnson maintains a professional outlook on the matter. "I mean, hey, everybody makes mistakes, it ain't just the media that do it. Players clearly -- if they voted for it -- they made some god damn mistakes. But it is what it is. At the end of the day I know the truth and it's alright, I got some more for them," Johnson remarked, indicating his determination to prove the doubters wrong.
The Bears had own had only two representatives on the Top 100 list: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. Johnson's exclusion is more puzzling given that he recently secured a substantial four-year, $76 million contract extension in March, reflecting the Bears' confidence in his abilities and future potential.
Indeed, Johnson's reaction underscores a broader conversation within the NFL community about the credibility and subjectivity of such rankings. "So I mean, whatever it is, it happened. Doing it wouldn't have moved me to where I'm complacent, but just to see it -- ain't no way there are 100 guys who are better. Ain't no way. Especially guys who didn't play, who were hurt, played half -- ain't no f---ing way. Excuse my language. Ain't no way. Ain't no way," he exhaled, encapsulating the bewilderment felt by many.
Looking to the future, Johnson sees this snub as a motivating factor for the upcoming season. He affirmed that the exclusion would "100%" drive him as he gears up for another year with the Bears. For a player who prides himself on his hard work and tenacity, the oversight by his peers and media may serve as the catalyst for an even more dominant performance in 2024.
Regardless of his omission from the Top 100 list, Johnson's contributions to the Chicago Bears and his standout performances speak volumes. As he continues to evolve and refine his game, there is little doubt that Jaylon Johnson will remain a key figure in the Bears' defensive lineup -- determined and ready to prove that his exclusion from the Top 100 was nothing more than a significant oversight.