The Chicago Bears have been without a few key faces during their voluntary OTAs. Nate Davis may be the strangest player not at voluntary workouts, but many speculations have been thrown around about Jaylon Johnson not arriving. Media members asked both Alan Williams and Matt Eberflus about the situation yesterday.
When asked if we should expect to see Jaylon Johnson at practice, Alan Williams told reporters, "Can I say no comment? Ya know what, I'm going to say no comment." Williams also went on to say, "We would love all our guys to be out there but the way football is now it is optional. They have to make a choice whether they are here or not."
Matt Eberflus had similar sentiments on the situation, but the Chicago Bears cornerbacks coach and passing game coordinator, Jon Hoke told reporters that Jaylon Johnson has been attending Zoom meetings and reaching out almost every other day with questions. Hoke even said, "I think he'll be here sooner than later."
Well, it appears that Jon Hoke may have been in the know. On this morning's episode of Keyshawn, JWill & Max, Jaylon Johnson spoke about his absence from voluntary OTAs. He stated that he has been spending time with his daughter and focusing on her because he is a young father and is unable to see her as much during the season. Johnson also mentioned working on his charity work -- the same work that made him a Walter Payton Man of the Year Award nominee. The key to the whole conversation though is that he plans on being at OTAs next week.
""I'm gonna be there for sure next week""Jaylon Johnson, Chicago Bears Cornerback
When it comes to voluntary offseason workouts, fans always want to see everyone show up. You would think that someone heading into a contract season would want to be present. That said, Jaylon Johnson is participating remotely, and as long as he is keeping in shape and is present for mandatory camps, then it doesn't matter that he's missing these first few weeks. In fact, it gives young players like Tyrique Stevenson more reps and although that could indirectly lead to Jaylon Johnson not receiving an extension, it is also for the betterment of the team as a whole.