Jaylon Johnson’s Snub Rattles the NFL's Top 100 List
In an unexpected twist, Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson has found himself omitted from the NFL’s Top 100 list despite a stellar 2023 season. Johnson's exclusion has sparked considerable controversy within the football community, and the player himself has not shied away from voicing his disbelief.
Johnson's 2023 season was nothing short of exceptional. He earned second-team All-Pro honors and secured a Pro Bowl bid. Statistically, Johnson was a menace on the field, recording a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six. Additionally, he forced one fumble and held opponents to a mere 50.9 passer rating when targeted, yielding just a 55% completion rate. Despite these impressive numbers, Johnson was passed over for the NFL’s Top 100 list, a ranking that purportedly celebrates the league’s best talents.
Only two Chicago Bears players managed to carve out spots on the list: wide receiver Keenan Allen, slotted in at No. 51, and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. This adds another layer of perplexity to Johnson’s omission, considering his contributions were nothing short of pivotal for the Bears this season.
Understandably, Johnson's reaction was one of intense frustration. “Bull----. It’s bull----. There ain’t no way,” he said, voicing his discontent candidly. “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].”
Johnson’s bewilderment extends beyond his personal snub, questioning the credibility of the voting process itself. “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’s ire is rooted in what he perceives as a blatant disregard for his performance and the effort he brings to the field each week. “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.”
His passionate response highlights a broader sentiment shared by many players who feel underappreciated despite consistently delivering high-level performances. “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.”
This oversight is not just a personal snub for Johnson but a testament to the subjective and often controversial nature of such rankings. The glaring omission has unquestionably stoked a fire within Johnson, who has made it clear that this slight will serve as fuel for the upcoming season. The cornerback has vowed to use this as motivation, stating, “100%” as he gears up for another year with the Bears.
With a four-year, $76 million contract extension signed in March, Johnson's career with the Bears appears to be firmly on track. Yet, this recent snub has added an extra edge to his already competitive demeanor. As Johnson prepares for the new season, all eyes will undoubtedly be on him, watching to see how the cornerback channels this perceived injustice into his on-field performance.
In the grand scheme of NFL rankings and accolades, Johnson's exclusion from the Top 100 is a stark reminder that, despite numbers and honors, recognition is not always a given. For Johnson, however, this latest development has merely cemented his resolve to prove that he is indeed one of the league’s elite players.