Former Utah Standout Jaylon Johnson Earns First Pro Bowl Nod

Former Utah Ute, Jaylon Johnson was recently named to his first Pro Bowl after an impressive 2023-2024 season.

Give 'em the good news, Coach! pic.twitter.com/8IZ5bchNdL
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) January 4, 2024

Johnson, who plays cornerback for the Chicago Bears, joins teammate Montez Sweat as the Bears’ first Pro Bowl selections since defensive end Robert Quinn and return specialist Jakeem Grant were selected in 2021.

"It is special that God has blessed me with the opportunity and favor to be selected to my first Pro Bowl," Johnson said. "I'm thankful for all of those who have played a role in my success because when I win, we all win."

In a contract year, Johnson has lit up the Chicago skyline all season long as one of the Bears' best defensive players. In the 14 games he has played this season, Johnson has a career-high four interceptions, to go along with 36 tackles, and 10 pass breakups. In addition to being tied for the Bears’ leader in interceptions, Johnson has also returned one of his picks for a 39-yard score in a game against the Raiders.

Arguably the NFL’s best coverage cornerback, Johnson currently stands as the league’s highest-graded corner in coverage with a 91.0 rating according to PFF. PFF had also previously graded Johnson as the No.1 corner in terms of passer rating allowed. As of Dec. 15th, Johnson allowed a passing rating of only 26.2 when targeted.

Much like Johnson’s ascension, the Bears’ defense as a whole has rapidly improved as the season has progressed. As a defensive unit, the Bears rank first among the NFL in both total interceptions (22), and run defense, allowing only 84 yards per game.

However, if the Bears wish to keep their sensational defensive core together, they will have to pay the former Ute a hefty sum.

In the last year of his 4-year, $6,468,770 rookie deal, Johnson is owed a contract extension at season’s end. Prior reports indicate that the Bears have already offered Johnson a 5-year, $93M contract (MJ Hurley), but the Pro Bowl corner still remains unsigned.

While Johnson has previously expressed his interest to stay in Chicago, he only increased his value by playing as one of the league’s brightest young defensive stars. While it remains to be seen where he will sign, one thing is for certain, Johnson is in line for one of the most valuable cornerback contracts in NFL history.

Jaylon Johnson's Pro Bowl is deserved

🏆 @PFF's top-graded CB
🔒 Owner of PFF's top coverage grade
🏈 Career-best 4 interceptions

The only thing left is to pay the man his money! pic.twitter.com/eXu19rQXwW
— Bleacher Nation Bears (@BN_Bears) January 4, 2024

In terms of betting on yourself, Johnson’s 2023-2024 campaign is already at the pinnacle. However, there is one more accolade that could potentially come his way. Earning an All-Pro nod, which is certainly a possibility, would make Johnson one of the offseason’s most sought after free-agents.