Chicago Bears face crucial decision on these 5 players

2. Jaylon Johnson, CB

There is no way Ryan Poles allows Jaylon Johnson to test the free agency waters, right?

Right?

After the season Johnson just had, and watching his names be amongst top trade rumors in 2023, the Bears absolutely have to give him a contract. If he hits free agency, that is one of the worst-case scenarios for this team in the offseason.

Johnson ended the year as the top-graded cornerback by Pro Football Focus and allowed a ridiculous 33.3 opposing passer rating when targeted. Johnson allowed only a 50 percent completion rate and was credited with giving up just a single touchdown all season long, on 530 coverage snaps.

He played his way into being one of the top-paid cornerbacks in football in a matter of just one season. Going into 2023, he had shown some very good things in three years. But, it still didn't seem like he was going to pan out as a top-tier cornerback. He had some good years, but had yet to have a great one.

We can chalk 2023 up as a great one, that's for sure. This guy needs a contract.