(670 The Score) While the NFL trade deadline looms Tuesday afternoon, there’s a key point to remember in the contract extension negotiations between cornerback Jaylon Johnson and the Bears.
There’s no hard deadline looming soon for the sides to reach an agreement on a new contract. Johnson and the Bears can still work out a deal later in the season or early in the offseason before Johnson would reach free agency. It’s with that in mind that Johnson explained Monday evening that neither side has taken a hard stance yet in negotiations and that he’s “at peace” with however both Tuesday and the future beyond that play out.
“It’s hard to say if you’re far or if you’re close (to a deal),” Johnson said on the Parkins & Spiegel Show. “I think, again, it’s just kind of pushing the other one’s agenda a little bit, of course just trying to get out everything I can and then for them, trying to stay at their number or their range that they want. It’s one of those things where you don’t know until you know.
“You don’t really know until somebody really takes a hard stance on it, and that hasn’t happened at this point.”
The 24-year-old Johnson is playing in the final year of his contract. He previously admitted the thought of being dealt away has crossed his mind, though the Bears haven’t given any indication to date that they’re exploring such a path.
Unlike when the Bears had friction with star linebacker Roquan Smith in 2022, leading to his exit in a trade to the Ravens, Chicago is on good terms with Johnson, meaning he’s likely to remain with the organization for the rest of the season. Johnson is having a superb season, as he ranks No. 3 among all cornerbacks in the NFL in Pro Football Focus’ grades.
Johnson pushed back at the idea that he has been open about his desire for a contract extension in an effort to spur action. He's simply happy to talk about the topic in general terms when he's asked about it.
“No, if I wanted to spur action, I would say a lot more than what I already said,” Johnson said. “I’ve always been an open book. But I’ve learned and also know there’s a sense of professionalism in it as well.
“I say what’s going on, but I don’t say all the details of everything.”
Johnson added, “It’s all just about what makes sense for both sides.”