CHICAGO Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson has agreed a new four-year deal with the team worth $76 million (£59 million).
Johnson was set to become a free agent when free agency opens on March 13, but Chicago franchise tagged him on March 5.
The franchise tag ensured that Johnson would remain a Bear for the 2024 season, whilst the two parties worked on thrashing out a new deal.
The tag proved to be merely a formality, as the Bears retained the services of one of the league’s brightest defensive talents within days of the tag.
The 24-year-old was voted to the Pro Bowl for the first time in 2023, and ended the season with 31 tackles, as well as a career-high four interceptions.
The cornerback has started all 53 games since being drafted by the Bears out of Utah in 2020.
He has registered 161 tackles, five interceptions, 41 pass breakups, four tackles-for-loss, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery during his four years with the team.
Johnson requested a trade away from Chicago ahead of the trade deadline back in October 2023, but the Bears couldn’t agree terms with any potential suitors.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles was thrilled to keep a key defensive player with the team for the foreseeable future.
He said: “We’re extremely excited to be able to keep Jaylon here for the next four years,”
“He’s an integral part of our defense and his leadership will help our team continue to ascend.” Poles added.
