Courtney Cronin, who joined ESPN in 2017 and now covers the Chicago Bears, reports that cornerback Jaylon Johnson views 2026 as a contract year. He has two seasons left on his four-year, $76 million extension signed in 2024.

Johnson said, "This is definitely a contract year," adding that he must prove he remains a top player regardless of location. He missed training camp in 2025 after a groin injury, missed the opener, and returned only in Week 13, posting one interception, two passes defensed and 17 tackles in seven games. He believes the injuries do not add extra pressure, but he wants to demonstrate his durability.

Despite the injury‑riddled season, he emphasized staying healthy and being a difference‑maker, saying he wants to "show how I do what I do best and that’s covering, that’s making plays." He expects contract talks to begin a year early and said the defense must improve beyond relying on a strong offense.

He also noted that teammates like Tyrique Stevenson, Kyler Gordon, and several defensive linemen are in contract years and must prove themselves, stressing the defense must improve beyond relying on a strong offense.