The Chicago Bears and Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson made a major agreement on Thursday, signing a four-year contract for $76 million with $54.4 million guaranteed.
Two sources familiar with the case confirmed the financial details of the transaction, which were first reported by the NFL Network. They talked to The Associated Press under the condition of anonymity because the terms had not been formally published.
“We’re extremely excited to be able to keep Jaylon here for the next four years,” said general manager Ryan Poles. “He’s an integral part of our defence, and his leadership will help our team continue to ascend.”
This agreement comes only two days after the Bears designated Johnson with the franchise tag. If he had not accepted the extension by the July 15 deadline, he would have been entitled to $19.8 million in 2024. Johnson had expressed a wish to continue with the Bears.
Johnson, who turns 25 in April, had an excellent season last year, intercepting four passes and returning one for a score.
In addition, he defended ten passes and forced a fumble, earning second-team All-Pro honours.
Despite an initial struggle, the Bears’ defence ranked 12th in the NFL, while they struggled against the pass and finished 25th. Poles believed they were on the verge of extending the contract after a productive meeting in Los Angeles on October 29, when the Bears faced the Chargers.
However, the scenario changed the following day when Johnson’s representatives expressed an interest in discussing trade possibilities. Johnson was allowed to pursue other chances before the Oct. 31 deadline, but he ultimately stayed with the Bears.
Johnson’s performance improved significantly as the season went on, with four interceptions in his last ten games compared to just one in his first 43.
Heading into the new season, Chicago, which ended 7-10 last season, has the first and ninth overall picks in the upcoming draft.
