As the Chicago Bears prepare for a pivotal offseason, important decisions loom regarding potential cuts that could impact both the roster and salary cap. Notably, some players under consideration for release may hold significant trade value, prompting General Manager Ryan Poles to explore all avenues for maximally effective cap management.
In an analysis by NFL.com’s Matt Okada, three key players emerged as potential cut candidates for the Bears, highlighting tight end Cole Kmet and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds among the expected choices. However, Okada introduced a wildcard in the conversation: cornerback Jaylon Johnson.
Johnson, a two-time Pro Bowl selection in 2023 and 2024, had a solid five seasons with the Bears before suffering a severe groin injury that sidelined him for much of the 2025 season. Despite his standing as a top-10 cornerback prior to his injury, his current contract—with a $19 million average annual value—places him just outside the financial elite at his position.
The rationale for Johnson being labeled a cut candidate is notably tied to financial implications. He carries a staggering $24.5 million cap hit in 2026, and the Bears could free up $15.5 million by designating him as a post-June 1 release, a strategy that could alleviate financial pressure significantly. However, his performance in the previous season was underwhelming, as evidenced by his 58.7 overall defensive grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking him 64th among corners with over 400 snaps.
Johnson’s injury history is particularly concerning. After tearing an adductor muscle in July and facing subsequent complications that required core surgery, he returned to play in Week 13 but at what level of effectiveness remains uncertain. He participated in over 81 percent of defensive snaps during the final stretch of the season, indicating a commitment to the team, yet the Bears must weigh his value against the potential cap savings.
As noted, if the Bears elect to move on from Johnson, selecting a post-June 1 designation could provide them with additional flexibility, especially considering that part of his base salary becomes guaranteed shortly after the start of the league year.
With the future direction of the franchise hinging on critical offseason decisions, the Bears face a formidable challenge in navigating player contracts and performance evaluations. The potential departure of players like Johnson, coupled with a thorough strategy for replacement, will be essential as the team seeks to optimize both its roster and salary cap heading into the next season. The narrative emphasizes the uncertainty of NFL decisions and suggests that proactive planning will be vital for the Bears as they look to enhance their competitiveness moving forward.