Here’s what Jaylon Johnson said about running with the 2nd team at OTAs

Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson was greeted with an unpleasant surprise during OTAs last month. The presumed CB1 in 2022 was relegated to the second team by coach Matt Eberflus, who later downplayed its significance. Still, it was a surprise for a player who’s regarded as one of the top young cornerbacks in the NFC.

Johnson chatted about it with Jim Rome on The Jim Rome Show Wednesday and admitted that he was a bit surprised by his time as a second-teamer.

“I don’t want to say it didn’t bother me,” Johnson said. “But at the end of the day it’s not anything I’m going to give too much energy to. I know what I can do. And if I’m not mistaken they know what I can do as well.”

Jaylon Johnson entering a prove-it year in 2022

Not so fast, Jaylon.

The Bears’ coaching staff — an entirely new coaching staff — doesn’t know what Johnson can do just yet. At least, not in their defense, which is a completely different scheme than what Jaylon Johnson’s played in so far in his career.

The Bears’ next set of OTAs kicks off on June 14, and it’s expected Johnson will resume his role as one of the defense’s most important players — and starters — in the final tune-up before training camp.

Johnson has started all 28 games he’s played since 2020. And despite registering just one career interception, he’s been the Bears’ best defensive back over the last two seasons. That said, he didn’t have the best finish to the 2021 season. He allowed an opposing QB rating of 121.4 or better and four touchdowns over the final five games, per Pro Football Focus.

The 2022 Bears training camp will be one of the most interesting in years. Every player will begin the summer sessions with a clean slate, including past starters who have to prove they deserve their first-team status. Johnson is one of them.