The Chicago Bears have found ways to win despite several players missing time due to injuries. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson has been limited to just one game this season, but on Thursday, things took a big turn for the better.
The Bears released their injury report, and Johnson was a full participant, which makes it appear that he could return to action in Week 12 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. And his return likely spells bad news for fellow Chicago CB Nahshon Wright.
Jaylon Johnson’s Return May Be Bad News for Nahshon Wright
Johnson is Chicago's CB1 and was paid as one. And when he gets back on the field, it means that he'll step back into his starting role, and Wright seems like the player who'll get benched. Wright replaced Johnson as the starting left cornerback and made plays while he was out there.
This season, Wright is second on the team in pass deflections (8), while being tied for second in the NFL in interceptions (4). He has been able to take the ball, but has left some things to be desired as a coverage guy. This season, Wright has allowed 31 receptions (58 targets) for 426 receiving yards and six touchdowns. His 55.5 Pro Football Focus coverage grade is also only 76th-best among 108 qualified CBs.
Granted, Wright has been able to snag some interceptions, but he has allowed receivers to get past him, creating some big plays. It's still great that he was able to step up and stay healthy for a Bears secondary that has dealt with multiple injuries, but his time as the starter seems to be coming to an end.
Johnson is a two-time Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro (2023) during his time with the Bears and has continued to make things difficult for opposing teams' top receivers. Last season, Johnson gave up 32 catches for 424 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 17 games.
Over six seasons in Chicago, Johnson has logged 216 total tackles, 49 pass deflections, and seven interceptions. The last few months have been a whirlwind for Johnson, as he has to undergo groin surgery in September.
Johnson has been able to gear up during practice, and being a full go on Thursday is massive. The Bears are leading the NFL in turnover differential (+16), with 22 total takeaways, including an NFL high 15 interceptions. Getting their best cornerback will only make this unit better, but at the same time, it likely means that Wright's time as a starter will be coming to an end.