NFL.com Just Put a Star Chicago Bears Player on the Cut Watch List
A new NFL.com analysis suggests the Bears could save $15.5 million by releasing a star defender. Here’s why the idea is gaining traction.
NFL.com just floated a scenario that would send shockwaves through Chicago: the Bears cutting Jaylon Johnson this offseason.
On the surface, it feels extreme. Johnson has been one of the most reliable defenders on the roster over the last five seasons, earning back-to-back Pro Bowl nods in 2023 and 2024 and entering 2025 widely viewed as a top-10 cornerback.
But money is money, and the Bears' 2026 balance sheet needs to be figured out.
Johnson has a $24.5 million cap hit this year. According to NFL.com’s analysis, the Bears could save approximately $15.5 million by designating him for a post-June 1 release, their most financially beneficial option if they choose to move on.
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That’s real money, especially for a team with needs at premium positions like left tackle and edge rusher.
Johnson missed most of the 2025 season with a severe groin injury. When he did play, the numbers weren’t elite.
"Johnson’s 58.7 overall defensive grade from PFF ranked 64th out of 98 corners with 400+ snaps in 2025, and his 12.2 yards allowed per target was seventh-most among corners with 20+ targets," NFL.com's Matt Okada wrote.
That doesn’t erase what he’s been. But it does complicate what he’s worth.
And let’s be honest, cutting your best cover man isn’t how contending teams typically operate. The Bears’ defense was a takeaways juggernaut in 2025; Ripping out a foundational piece would be risky.
Chicago is navigating a two-year stretch before Williams’ fifth-year option and eventual extension reshape the books. Saving $15.5 million could fund multiple depth pieces or help secure long-term extensions elsewhere before the Brinks Truck gets backed up for QB18.
Ryan Poles has preached disciplined cap management since he arrived. If he believes Johnson’s best football is ahead and 2025 was an injury blip, the conversation ends quickly.
But if he views the contract as misaligned with production?
Nothing can be ruled out.
