Chicago Bears’ Jaylon Johnson Seeks Trade Before Deadline, Source Says
Oct 31, 2023, 09:29 AM ET
The Chicago Bears have granted cornerback Jaylon Johnson permission to seek a trade ahead of Tuesday’s deadline, a source told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Johnson recently requested to be traded after not coming close to reaching a new deal with the Bears last week, the source told Fowler.
Johnson now is among the most talented players available. Veteran defensive backs Kevin Byard and J.C. Jackson already have been traded this season ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET deadline.
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The San Francisco 49ers are among the teams reportedly linked to Johnson, who is set to become a free agent after this season.
If the last-place Bears (2-6) are unable to trade Johnson, they could use their franchise tag next year on him.
Johnson indicated last week during an interview with Chicago radio station 670 The Score that contract negotiations with the Bears were “starting to ramp up” but also acknowledged that “many different things that can happen” when asked about the possibility of a trade.
Johnson, 24, has 18 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in six games this season, his fourth with the Bears. The 2020 second-round draft pick has appeared in 45 career games with Chicago, recording 143 tackles and three interceptions.
The Chicago Bears have made a significant decision regarding cornerback Jaylon Johnson. According to a source close to the situation, the team has granted Johnson permission to seek a trade before the upcoming deadline. This move comes after Johnson failed to reach a new deal with the Bears last week, prompting him to request a trade.
With this development, Johnson has now become one of the most sought-after players in the league. Notably, veteran defensive backs Kevin Byard and J.C. Jackson have already been traded earlier this season, further highlighting the demand for talented players like Johnson.
The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly one of the teams interested in acquiring Johnson. As a free agent after this season, Johnson’s availability has attracted attention from several teams looking to bolster their defensive lineup.
In the event that a trade cannot be finalized, the Bears, currently in last place with a 2-6 record, have the option to use their franchise tag on Johnson next year. This would allow them to retain his services for another season.
During a recent interview with Chicago radio station 670 The Score, Johnson expressed optimism about contract negotiations with the Bears, stating that they were “starting to ramp up.” However, he also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the possibility of a trade. Johnson’s comments suggest that he is open to exploring different opportunities and is prepared for any outcome.
At just 24 years old, Johnson has already made a significant impact on the Bears’ defense. In six games this season, he has recorded 18 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. These impressive statistics reflect his skill and versatility on the field. Since being drafted in the second round in 2020, Johnson has played in a total of 45 games for the Bears, accumulating 143 tackles and three interceptions.
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Jaylon Johnson and the potential suitors vying for his services. With his exceptional talent and proven track record, it is no surprise that teams like the San Francisco 49ers are interested in acquiring him. Whether a trade is finalized or not, Johnson’s future in the NFL looks promising, and fans can expect to see more outstanding performances from this talented cornerback in the seasons to come.