Jaylon Johnson's Omission from NFL's Top 100 Fuels Outrage and Determination
Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, known for his stellar performance in the 2023 season, has been notably omitted from the NFL's Top 100 list, sparking a wave of criticism and disbelief within the football community.
Johnson, who earned second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid last season, showcased his exceptional skills with a career-high four interceptions, including his first pick-six, and one forced fumble. His defensive prowess was further highlighted by holding opponents to a mere 50.9 passer rating when targeted and allowing just a 55% completion rate.
Despite these impressive statistics, the NFL's Top 100 list recognized only two players from the Bears: wide receiver Keenan Allen at No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat at No. 82. This exclusion has left many, including Johnson himself, questioning the criteria and processes behind the selections.
In a raw and candid response to the news, Johnson did not hold back his frustration. "Bull----," he said. "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]."
Johnson's indignation is palpable as he reflects on what he perceives as a significant oversight. "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."
The cornerback's sense of disrespect is equally directed towards the players who vote for the list. "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 best players that they play against," Johnson emphasized.
Johnson's disappointment is not just about personal recognition; it's about the principle of the selection criteria that left him, a top performer, out in favor of players who did not contribute significantly last season. "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."
The exclusion has, however, ignited a new fire in Johnson. He admits that the snub will "100%" serve as motivation as he prepares for the upcoming year with the Bears.
Johnson's reaction underscores a prevailing issue within NFL rankings: the balance between players’ actual performances and the sometimes inexplicable outcomes of voting-based lists. While the NFL Top 100 list is designed to celebrate the league's best, omissions like Johnson’s raise considerable debate about its accuracy and fairness.
In March, Johnson secured a four-year, $76 million contract extension, solidifying his value to the Bears and the league. His contributions on the field have been critical to the team's defensive strategy and overall performance, which makes the snub even more bewildering to fans and analysts alike.
As Johnson channels this perceived disrespect into further motivation, the Bears' coaching staff and fans will undoubtedly be eager to see him translate his frustration into another standout season. The cornerback's determination to prove the critics wrong and cement his place among the NFL's elite could be just the spark the Bears need to propel their defensive unit.
For now, the focus remains on the upcoming season, where Johnson has the opportunity to let his performance do the talking, potentially forcing a reevaluation of his exclusion from future lists. With his track record and determination, Jaylon Johnson remains a player to watch.