Despite having a memorable 2025 regular season, the Chicago Bears could be forced to cut cornerback Jaylon Johnson once free agency begins next month. Johnson is coming off one of the worst seasons as a cornerback, suffering a groin injury, which led the veteran to miss some time. The veteran returned to the starting lineup until he reaggravated the same injury, and now he might be in danger of a release. It’s going to be a difficult decision by General Manager Ryan Poles, but the team will need to make the call to improve the secondary unit.
Cash-Strapped Bears Could Cut $76 Million All-Pro Jaylon Johnson
However, there is always an alternative to every situation. This means the Bears could restructure his contract this upcoming offseason to keep him. Despite that, it’s likely to be easier to release him as he probably won’t be as reliable health-wise. Originally selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Johnson has been one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the league. He’s a true keystone player to the defense, which the Bears are already considering releasing long-time veteran linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, too.
Chicago is $5.3 million over the cap, which isn’t the worst thing, but it doesn’t allow them tons of flexibility to strengthen the roster. The Pro Bowler has two years left on his current contract, and if the Bears want to release him, then probably this is the offseason they should do it. However, the Bears could rework Johnson’s contract, so this would allow a potential trade to happen at some point during the 2026 regular season. Chicago is already at risk of losing several secondary pieces like Jaquan Brisker, but here are some possible fits if the Bears pull off a shocking Johnson trade.
Possible Suitors
Dallas Cowboys
While the Cowboys have a promising defensive line, the same can’t be said about the secondary. It’s been an uphill battle for the cornerback room, dealing with injuries and inconsistency issues. DaRon Bland and an unproven Reddy Steward were arguably the only ones who made an impact down the stretch. After releasing Trevon Diggs this past 2025 season, the Cowboys need a huge reset in the secondary.
Dallas was close to getting Minkah Fitzpatrick, and with the team needing an adequate safety as well, it wouldn’t be the worst idea to take a look at Johnson. He might be bruised from multiple injuries, but it allows the Cowboys to get a potential veteran and someone who could light up the field on defense when healthy.
Baltimore Ravens
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens are predicted to cut Marlon Humphrey. If that happens, the team will need to find a replacement, especially after trading Jaire Alexander this past season to the Eagles. Ever since the team fired John Harbaugh, any changes can happen both defensively and offensively. Nate Wiggins is solid, but that can’t compensate for what Chidobe Awuzie has been doing.
The Ravens could make Johnson their newest captain and shore up this secondary. If the Ravens retain Humphrey, the team should still consider Johnson.
Kansas City Chiefs
Here’s another possible contender that would allow Johnson to win a Super Bowl. The Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time in almost a decade. However, it’s expected that they will return to the postseason in 2027. Unfortunately, they’re in dire need of cap space, which means they’re likely to part ways with several secondary talents, including Bryan Cook, and with the opportunity to trade Trent McDuffie.
If the Chiefs have to trade McDuffie, the team should look into getting compensated in return to get a veteran like Johnson. He won’t be on the level like McDuffie, but they might have to risk it again with a trade as they did with L’Jarius Sneed a few offseasons ago.