Ex-Steelers Trade Target Sends Conflicting Message on NFL Future
Jaylon Johnson, an All-Pro cornerback, could not be available to the Pittsburgh Steelers in NFL free agency at the end of the regular season, according to the Chicago Bears. However, Johnson seemed to reopen that door on February 3.
“My heart is in Chicago, and my mind is right on target,” Johnson stated to NFL.com during the Pro Bowl on February 3. We’ll see if we can persuade them both to cooperate and complete a task, I suppose.
“I’m excited to see what lies ahead.”
Since the NFL trade deadline, Johnson has been associated with the Steelers.
Before the league’s trade deadline, on October 31, Johnson asked for a trade from Chicago, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. In addition, Fowler stated that three clubs were negotiating a trade for the cornerback, including the Steelers.
Can CB Jaylon Johnson Play for the Pittsburgh Steelers?
On February 3, Johnson used his contradicting message to express those thoughts. He made a similar statement before to Christmas.
On December 20, Johnson told reporters, via Andrew Seligman of AP News, “I want to stay here.” “I’m determined to do this task here first. Ultimately, though, I have nothing against trying any alternative course of action if things doesn’t work out.
However, I wish I could remain here. That concludes the matter.
The Steelers, who desperately needed a cornerback, would be a prime suitor if he were to become a free agent. Having just finished his finest season to date in 2023, Johnson would instantly improve Pittsburgh’s backup position opposite Joey Porter Jr.
In 2023, Johnson recorded 36 total tackles, 10 pass defenses, and 4 interceptions. He made his second team All-Pro and his first Pro Bowl.
However, unlikely Johnson Enters NFL Free Agency
Additionally, Ryan Poles, general manager of the Bears, made it apparent that Johnson will remain in Chicago.
“We’ll work through it to get something done; Jacob won’t be going anywhere.”According to Alex Shapiro of NBC Sports Chicago, Poles stated on January 10 that “we have really good communication.” “The main idea was to simply take a break here at the end of the season and then resume talks.” I’m feeling great about that circumstance.
The Bears want to apply the franchise tag to Johnson during the offseason, according to a report from Mike Jurecki of Arizona Football Daily on February 4.
The Bears will have to pay around $18.8 million on a one-year tender to place the tag on Johnson. Johnson and the Bears will then have until the middle of July to reach a decision on an extension.
Even yet, it’s unlikely that this will deter Steelers supporters from becoming giddy over the remote chance that Johnson will become a free agent and join with Pittsburgh.