Jaylon Johnson Trade Rumors Heat Up: How the Bears’ Star Corner Could Reshape the 2025 NFL Season

In a jarring blow to the Chicago Bears’ secondary, Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson has been ruled out indefinitely after re-aggravating a groin injury during Sunday’s 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions, multiple reports confirm. Key takeaways • Johnson exited midway through the second quarter while chasing wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown and did not return; post-game imaging revealed a significant setback to the same groin that sidelined him in training camp. • Team physicians have yet to set a firm timetable, but league sources anticipate a multi-week absence that could stretch past Chicago’s Week 9 bye. • Second-year corner Tyrique Stevenson and veteran Kindle Vildor split snaps after Johnson left; defensive coordinator Eric Washington said the club “will explore external options” if rehab extends into November. Why the loss stings 1. Lockdown production: Johnson has allowed a 57.3 passer rating when targeted since 2022, third-best among NFL corners (min. 100 targets). 2. Scheme anchor: Matt Eberflus relies on press-man looks that demand elite boundary play; without Johnson, the Bears surrendered 189 passing yards in the second half alone. 3. Contract implications: Johnson is in the final year of his rookie deal; any prolonged injury could complicate extension talks the two sides restarted last month. What’s next for Chicago • Short week: The Bears host the 2-0 Seahawks on Thursday Night Football; expect Seattle to test Stevenson early and often. • Roster moves: Free-agent corners Casey Hayward and Eli Apple have already been linked to the Bears’ front office, per league insiders. • Rehab timeline: Groin strains typically need 4-6 weeks; if surgery becomes necessary, Johnson could land on injured reserve and miss at least four games, including divisional matchups with Green Bay and Minnesota. Fantasy and betting impact – Fade the Bears’ DST: Chicago has generated only two takeaways through two games; losing its top corner further depresses sack and interception upside. – Boost opposing WR1s: DK Metcalf, Christian Watson and Justin Jefferson loom on the schedule; each projects for WR1 fantasy volume against a depleted secondary. The bottom line Jaylon Johnson’s indefinite absence leaves a gaping hole in a defense already fighting to stay afloat. How quickly the Bears identify a reliable replacement—and how fast Johnson can return to full strength—may determine whether Chicago’s playoff aspirations survive the season’s first month.