Jaylon Johnson’s Return Raises More Questions Than Answers for the Bears’ Secondary
The Chicago Bears have been one of the NFL’s hottest teams in recent weeks, but their momentum took a hit in a tough loss to the Green Bay Packers. That defeat snapped a five-game win streak and, more importantly, exposed some concerning cracks in the defense-particularly in the secondary. At the center of that spotlight is cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who’s back on the field but clearly not yet back to form.
Johnson logged 35 defensive snaps against the Packers-about two-thirds of the total-but looked like a player still trying to find his rhythm after a long layoff. On a key slant route, Christian Watson got the better of him, creating separation with ease. Johnson, usually sharp and sticky in coverage, looked a step slow-something we’re not used to seeing from the Bears’ top corner.
That wasn’t the only moment that raised eyebrows. Late in the fourth quarter, with the Bears needing a stop on 3rd-and-1, Josh Jacobs broke free for a 21-yard gain.
Chicago had four defenders in the backfield with a shot to bring him down, including Johnson. But instead of closing the play, Johnson seemed to pull up, offering minimal resistance.
Whether that was a physical limitation or something else, it’s the kind of play that stands out-especially in a tight NFC playoff race where every snap matters.
Johnson’s been through the wringer physically this season. Multiple groin injuries required surgery, and he’s only managed to suit up for two games so far. It’s clear he’s still working his way back, and while his return is a boost in theory, a less-than-100% Johnson presents a dilemma: is his presence helping or hurting the defense?
That question becomes even more pressing when you consider the state of the Bears’ cornerback room. Kyler Gordon is once again battling injury, and Tyrique Stevenson has missed the last two games with a hip issue.
The depth chart is looking thin, and Johnson is supposed to be the stabilizing force. But when your CB1 isn’t at full speed, it puts added stress on a secondary already stretched to its limits.
According to Pro Football Focus, Johnson graded out at just 54 overall with a 54.6 coverage grade against Green Bay. That’s well below the standard he’s set in his career-and far from what the Bears need from their top corner in the final stretch of the season.
No. 1 is a key piece of this defense, and his performance is going to be under a microscope from here on out. The NFC playoff picture is crowded, and the margin for error is razor-thin. If the Bears are going to stay in the hunt, they’ll need Johnson-not just on the field, but at the level fans and teammates have come to expect.