Jaylon Johnson hasn’t been shy about making it known that he wants an extension with the Chicago Bears.
But just in case you missed any of his previous declarations, here is an update via ESPN’s Courtney Cronin:
Jaylon Johnson, 24, is certainly deserving of a new deal. At a minimum, he has definitely earned the opportunity to make a pitch for one. Johnson has been a starter for three years, beginning with his first week as a pro in 2020. We witnessed Johnson embrace a leadership role in Year 3 and earn honorary captaincy. Plus, he was the Bears’ nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award last year. Injury concerns are atop a list of reasons why Chicago might be hesitant to extend Johnson. However, that is just a small smudge on what is otherwise a compelling case for a Johnson extension. Productive players who are locker room leaders and are still in the primes of their careers should get good, long looks from the front office.
Again, this concept isn’t new to anyone who has been following this situation for quite some time. We’ve been kicking around the idea of giving Johnson a new deal since December. Since then, Jaylon has been strongly hinting at wanting an extension for a while. The way I see it, there is never a bad time to let your employer know (again!) that you’re open to sticking around if you’re happy where you are. Especially when a new deal would come with a sizable raise. If you’re happy where you are, stick it out. And if you can get a pay bump, too, then more power to you. Jackson aims to do both of those things. But first, it sounds like Jackson is in the market for an agent who can help facilitate a deal. Any takers?