LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson had a succinct reaction to his exclusion from the NFL’s Top 100 list.
“Bulls—,” Johnson stated on Sunday.
After a standout season in which he received second-team All-Pro recognition and earned a Pro Bowl selection for his career-best performance in 2023, Johnson was not included in this annual list voted on by NFL players. He raised concerns about how selections were made and highlighted his accomplishments as justifying his place among the league’s elite players.
“It’s bulls—,” Johnson expressed. “There’s no way I should be left off this list after making Pro Bowl and All-Pro; it doesn’t make sense. Maybe I was close at No. 101 or something, but [New York Jets quarterback] Aaron Rodgers didn’t even play last season yet somehow he ended up [ranked] at No. 92.”
“Look, mistakes happen—it’s not just media errors; players obviously mess up too if they’re casting these votes,” he continued with frustration. “But it is what it is; I know my worth at the end of the day and I’ll prove that moving forward.”
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The Bears had only two representatives make it onto this year’s list: wide receiver Keenan Allen ranked No. 51 and defensive end Montez Sweat landed at No. 82.
Johnson notably tallied a career-high four interceptions (including his first pick-six) along with one forced fumble last season while registering an impressive passer rating of just 50.9 when targeted by opposing quarterbacks—all factors that contributed to him securing a four-year contract extension worth $76 million back in March.
The cornerback asserted that being overlooked will definitely serve as motivation for him this upcoming season.
“It feels disrespectful because when I’m out there competing, I can see that receivers recognize I’m one of their toughest challenges,” said Johnson confidently.” Regardless of what transpired here—it won’t change my drive—but seeing those rankings makes me question how anyone could believe there are truly one hundred other players better than me.”
Ain’t no way folks who barely played or were injured even belong ahead of me—excuse my language—but that’s just absurd.”
Jaylon Johnson’s Frustration Over NFL Top 100 Snub: ‘Bulls—‘
Understanding the NFL Top 100 List
The NFL Top 100 is an annual ranking that showcases the best players in the league, as voted on by NFL players themselves. This list can significantly impact a player’s reputation, contract negotiations, and overall career trajectory. It’s a coveted recognition that underscores a player’s hard work, talent, and contributions to their team.
Jaylon Johnson: A Rising Star in the NFL
Jaylon Johnson is a standout cornerback for the Chicago Bears, known for his tenacity on the field and ability to shut down opposing wide receivers. Drafted in 2020, Johnson quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in the league. His performance in previous seasons has earned him accolades, yet the recent snub from the NFL Top 100 left him feeling understandably frustrated.
Johnson’s Impressive Stats
To understand why Jaylon Johnson feels he deserved a spot in the NFL Top 100, let’s take a look at his impressive statistics over the past seasons:
| Season | Games Played | Tackles | Interceptions | Passes Defended |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 13 | 52 | 2 | 15 |
| 2021 | 16 | 56 | 2 | 11 |
| 2022 | 16 | 66 | 3 | 12 |
Johnson’s Reaction to the Snub
In his candid remarks, Johnson expressed his disbelief and frustration over not being included in the Top 100 list, stating it was “bulls—.” His outburst resonates with many fans and analysts who believe his performance warranted a higher recognition. Johnson’s emotional response highlights the passion and competitive spirit that defines NFL players.
Why Players Value the NFL Top 100
- **Recognition from Peers**: The Top 100 is a reflection of how players are viewed by their colleagues, making it a significant honor.
– **Impact on Career**: Being featured can lead to better contract negotiations and endorsement deals.
– **Fan Engagement**: The list stimulates fan discussions and enhances the overall excitement of the NFL season.
Analyzing the Snubbing Criteria
The criteria for selection in the NFL Top 100 are subjective and can vary significantly from year to year. Factors that typically influence a player’s ranking include:
– **Individual Performance**: Season statistics and impact on games.
– **Team Success**: A player’s contribution to their team’s overall success can play a role.
– **Injury History**: Players who miss significant time due to injury may be overlooked.
- **Player Popularity**: Star power and visibility can also influence rankings.
Big Names Overlooked in 2023
Johnson is not alone in feeling slighted. Other notable players expressing dissatisfaction include:
– **Trey Hendrickson**: The Bengals defensive end recorded a stellar season but was still omitted.
– **Darnell Mooney**: Another Bear, who has made waves but didn’t make the cut this year.
- **T.J. Watt**: Despite his dominance, some analysts argued that his injury history played a role in his ranking.
Case Studies: Players Who Overcame Snubs
Some players have successfully turned their snubs into motivation, using it as fuel to elevate their game. Here are a few examples:
| Player | Year Snubbed | Response | Subsequent Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antonio Brown | 2018 | Expressed anger on social media | Had a record-breaking season in 2019 |
| Michael Thomas | 2021 | Vowed to prove doubters wrong | Returned stronger in 2022 with record catches |
| Aaron Donald | 2020 | Focused on training | Won ‘Defensive Player of the Year’ in 2021 |
Practical Tips for Players Facing Snubs
For players like Jaylon Johnson who feel overlooked, here are practical tips to channel that frustration into positive action:
– **Stay Focused on Performance**: Use the snub as motivation to work harder and improve.
– **Engage with Fans and Media**: Share your journey and maintain a positive public image despite setbacks.
– **Build Relationships with Teammates**: Foster camaraderie that can help enhance overall team performance.
- **Utilize Feedback**: Analyze game footage and seek constructive criticism to enhance personal skills.
First-hand Experiences: Johnson’s Perspective
Jaylon Johnson’s journey through the NFL has not been without its challenges. He has faced injuries and intense competition, yet his dedication to the game has never wavered. In interviews, Johnson has highlighted the importance of resilience and the drive to improve as a fundamental part of his success.
> “You can’t let these things get to you. Every season is an opportunity to show what you can do,” Johnson stated, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
Conclusion
Jaylon Johnson’s frustration over his NFL Top 100 snub highlights the competitive nature of professional football. While the list may not define a player’s career, it certainly holds significant weight in the eyes of fans and players alike. As Johnson continues to develop his skills and contribute to the Chicago Bears, it will be intriguing to see how he channels this frustration into future performances. With his talent and determination, there’s no doubt he will aim for a spot on next year’s list.
