Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson (33) returns an interception as safety Eddie Jackson (4) looks on against the Minnesota Vikings during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings
(Chicago, IL) – The NFL Network just released their annual list of the top 100 players entering the 2024 season. Left off of that list was Bear’s cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who had some words about players that were selected over him.
One of those players was Jets’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers, who infamously played only 4 snaps in 2023, was ranked 92nd on the list.
Before calling out the veteran quarterback directly, Johnson noted that his resume in 2023, made him feel he had established himself as one of the best in the league.
“I know I go out there and line up and I know receivers out there and can’t say that I’m not one of the best players they play against…ain’t no way 100 guys are better, ain’t no way especially guys who didn’t play who were hurt [made it].”
He then added, “It’s bullshit…I could’ve been 101 I guess, but god damn Aaron Rodgers didn’t even play in the season and he was voted.”
Johnson was a Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro in 2023, and while realistically he should be considered a top 100 player, is the 4x MVP really the guy that should be called out?
Rodgers will be at the helm of a team poised to make the Super Bowl, while Johnson is making a name for himself on a team trying to find their stride.
To defend his quarterback on Good Morning Football was Sauce Gardner, who told reporters why Rodgers is regarded so highly.
“It’s so hard to intercept him. He don’t throw interceptions. He’s one of those quarterbacks that can put the ball exactly where he wants to put the ball. He’s gonna throw it to where the receiver can catch it.”
Gardner, heavily regarded as the best cornerback in the league, noted it’s hard for him to come close to messing up Rodgers. “You know me like I got long arms, when I’m in good position it’s like, worst I can do is PBU [pass break up] it, but it’s even hard to even do that going against him. He’d rather the ball go out of bounds if the receiver don’t catch the ball, than put it to where it’s a 50-50 ball across the middle.”
Gardner was ranked 38th overall and the 3rd-best corner on the Top 100 list.
