LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) – Admittedly, Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson didn't expect to be at Halas Hall on Wednesday.
After contract extension talks with the Bears stalled, Johnson requested a trade out of Chicago on Monday night and was granted permission by the organization to seek suitors. The 24-year-old Johnson has coveted a long-term future with the Bears, but given the state of the negotiations, he saw the trade request as the best option for him personally. He also believed it would mark the end of his time in Chicago.
Instead, a trade never came to fruition, so Johnson was back at Halas Hall on Wednesday still wondering about his contract future.
"There's a difference between talking and trying to work things out versus trying to get things done," Johnson said Wednesday. "Up until this weekend, nothing was done. I figured I wanted some different opportunities to see what else was out there for me.”
A second-round pick of the Bears in 2020, Johnson is playing in the final season of his rookie contract. He has long stated his desire to stay with the team – but only if financial security comes with it.
The Bears were seeking a late first-round pick or an early second-round pick in exchange for Johnson on the trade market, general manager Ryan Poles said. But what the team wants more than anything is to keep Johnson, and the Bears are ready to negotiate again when Johnson is.
"I don't want to lose Jaylon Johnson,” Poles said. “If I were to lose Jaylon Johnson, I would like to have a high percentage on hitting on another Jaylon Johnson.
"We are still open to getting a contract done."
Johnson is having a strong season, as he’s rated third among all NFL cornerbacks in Pro Football Focus’ grades. He has three interceptions in 45 career NFL games, including two in the Bears’ win against the Raiders on Oct. 22.
Through the course of contract negotiations, Johnson has been candid about the dealings. That remained the case Wednesday amid a frustrating turn at the table.
"I mean, arguably, I feel like I'm the best corner in the game right now,” Johnson said.
"I'm not asking to just change the market or break records. I'm not asking for any of that. But I'm also not just going to take anything.”
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.