ESPN Ranks Former Ute Jaylon Johnson as a Top 10 Free Agent
NFL Free Agency officially begins on March 13th, and as a result, rumors and rankings are beginning to ramp up, and ESPN's Matt Bowen has just released his Top 50 Free Agents list.
Among the list is former Utah star Jaylon Johnson, who ranks 9th overall after coming off his career-best year and solidifying himself as an upper-echelon corner in the league. Bowen had this to say about the 25-year-old corner, "Johnson had a career-high four interceptions this season, and he has logged 34 pass breakups over his four pro seasons. He can challenge in both press and off-man alignments, and he plays with the backfield vision to drive on the ball in zone schemes. Johnson is a physical corner who fits best in today's split-safety systems."
Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson (33) intercepts a pass intended for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) in the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
The 6'0" 196-pound 2nd-round pick is the top CB on the list and rightfully so after recording 36 total tackles, 1 forced fumble, 4 interceptions, 1 touchdown, and 10 passes defended in 14 games.
While there is still a slim chance he remains in the Windy City, his Pro Bowl quote suggests he will be donning new colors in 2024, "Heart's definitely in Chicago, mind's definitely on the money, so, I mean, we'll figure out if we can make them both come together and get something done. I'm looking forward to see what's to come."
Wherever Johnson lands, he will continue to make Utah proud and carry the torch for Utah defensive backs who are already in the NFL or who are NFL-bound for years to come.
