Chicago Bears: Keep watching these rising 2021 free agents
By Ryan Heckman
2. Safety John Johnson
The safety position is one that has been in flux since seeing Adrian Amos leave via free agency. Last season, the Bears transitioned Eddie Jackson to the strong safety position in order to accommodate signing Ha Ha Clinton-Dix. While the two of them played well, Jackson belongs at free safety to do his best work.
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This year, Tashaun Gipson stepped in next to Jackson. Gipson has played well enough for there not to be a drop-off in safety play, but going forward, the Bears need some kind of continuity. Gipson is on a 1-year deal and the Bears should opt to look for a permanent, young starter in 2021. Gipson could also be in line to receive a nice contract after playing a solid season this year.
The Los Angeles Rams have been one of the very best pass defenses in the league this year, and safety John Johnson is as consistent as they come at the position. The Boston College product is a former third-round pick and just 24 years old.
Next year, he’ll probably command a chunk of change — it may be too much money for the Bears. But, Chicago will want to at least do their due diligence on Johnson because he would be a phenomenal fit. He can play either safety spots and would give Jackson the ability to stick at free safety where he makes the most plays.
Johnson began his career with two-straight seasons of 11 passes defended and also finished 2018 with a whopping 119 total tackles. He’s a guy that’s always all over the field and in on the action. The Bears would love to have him.