The Chicago Bears held one practice session that was open to the media during their first set of organized team activities, and Jaylon Johnson was on the field for all of it.
The 2026 season is shaping up to be a critical season for the two-time Pro Bowler. He created a buzz following the first phase of the offseason program and comments from Bears defensive backs coach Al Harris.
Johnson has now responded both with his presence on the practice field and a fitting message.
Bears’ Jaylon Johnson Sends Strong Message After OTAs
Jaylon Johnson Entering Critical Season With Bears
Johnson appeared in a career-low seven games last season, starting six contests, while navigating soft-tissue injuries beginning in the summer and extending through to the campaign.
He was locked into his CB1 role on Thursday, though.
“They counting me out like ‘eeny, meeny, miny, moe’ but I’m ten toes down,” Johnson captioned a post on Instagram on May 29 that featured images of himself during the Bears’ latest OTAs. “I could never go.”
Harris alluded to Johnson not being with the Bears during the previous phase of the offseason program, which is voluntary by league rule.
Last season, Johnson spent part of his offseason training in Las Vegas, where he lives.
His presence or subsequent message may not have been in direct response to Harris, who was attempting to steer the conversation toward the players who had been there but ended up sparking speculation about Johnson.
It was still timely, given that context and the potential significance of the upcoming season to his future with the Bears.
Johnson is under contract through 2027 on a four-year, $76 million contract.
He counts $24.25 million against the cap this season and will count $25 million against it next season. However, there is no guaranteed money on the deal after this season. The Bears can cut ties with $9 million in dead money and $16 million in savings next summer if they so choose.
Johnson spoke candidly about wanting to re-evaluate his deal before last season. And even if this is to be his final season with the Bears, he will want to put another good season on tape.
Even in his admittedly diminished state last season, Johnson managed to make splash plays.
Jaylon Johnson Sparks Flurry of Reactions
Johnson’s post drew attention, including from several of his Bears teammates, who will all benefit if he is healthy and on the field more this coming season.
Bookend Tyrique Stevenson said, “Uno [handshake and fire emojis].” Luther Burden III posted a fingers-crossed emoji, while fellow wide receiver Jahdae Walker also shared the flame emoji in the comment section.
Former Bears safety Kevin Byard III posted a locked padlock emoji.
The Bears banked on Johnson and fellow starter Kyler Gordon returning from injury-marred seasons, and the former’s presence on the field bodes well in that regard.
