Jaylon Johnson’s Injury Update: Bears CB Shares Recovery Progress After Core Muscle Surgery

Chicago Bears star cornerback Jaylon Johnson has provided a promising injury update after undergoing core muscle surgery, saying he is “feeling good” and focused on a daily recovery plan. Johnson suffered the injury in Week 2 against the Detroit Lions and was placed on injured reserve shortly after, raising questions about when he might return to the field.

The 25-year-old cornerback had already missed the start of the 2025 NFL season due to a groin injury before suffering this new setback. Despite the challenging start, Johnson remains optimistic about his recovery and has not ruled out a return later this season.

Jaylon Johnson’s Injury Update: Surgery Went Well, Recovery on Track

Johnson shared the latest on his condition during an interview with Chicago’s 670 The Score, where he confirmed that his surgery — performed two weeks ago — went smoothly. “Everything went well, I had surgery two weeks ago, but I’m feeling good, moving around a lot better,” Johnson said. “Just looking forward to making the progress each and every week.”

He emphasized that his focus is on getting healthy rather than setting a specific return date. “No matter what happens, unless you suffer a very significant injury where you know your season is over, for myself, the biggest thing is to get healthy as quick as I can,” Johnson explained. “I’m not putting a time on anything. I’m not going to say I’ll be good in weeks or months — it’s just about going day-by-day.”

Johnson also noted that part of his rehab involves addressing the root causes of his recurring soft tissue issues. “Clearly soft tissue injuries stem from other things a lot of the time. For me, it’s trying to figure out where mine stem from,” he added.

The Bears placed Johnson on injured reserve following the Week 2 loss to Detroit, with hopes that he could make a return before the end of the season. However, his timeline remains uncertain as he focuses on recovery and strengthening.

Injuries Pile Up for Bears Defense in 2025

Johnson’s absence has been a major blow to Chicago’s secondary. A cornerstone of the Bears’ defense, he is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top cover corners and a vocal leader in the locker room. The defense has struggled without his presence, especially as other key players have been sidelined as well.

Fellow cornerback Kyler Gordon has yet to play a game this season due to his own injury issues, and star linebacker T.J. Edwards has missed significant time. These absences have forced Chicago’s defense to rely on younger, less experienced players, impacting their performance during the first quarter of the season.

Despite the setbacks, Johnson’s leadership and presence remain invaluable to the team. His return would be a significant boost to a defense that has struggled to contain opposing offenses in key situations this year.

What Johnson’s Recovery Means for the Bears’ Season

Chicago’s defense has faced mounting pressure without its stars, but there is optimism that Johnson could return in the latter part of the season if his rehab continues on track. A healthy Johnson not only bolsters the Bears’ secondary but also provides much-needed stability and leadership on and off the field.

Given that Johnson is dealing with his second significant injury of the season, the Bears are expected to be cautious with his return timeline. Rushing him back could risk further complications, and with the long-term future of the franchise in mind, a careful approach is likely.

For now, Jaylon Johnson’s injury update offers cautious optimism. His focus on steady progress and root-cause recovery could pave the way for a comeback later in the season — potentially just in time to make an impact for Chicago’s playoff hopes.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When did Jaylon Johnson have surgery?

He underwent core muscle surgery two weeks ago following an injury suffered in Week 2 against the Detroit Lions.

Q2: Will Jaylon Johnson return this season?

Johnson has not set a specific timeline for his return but expressed optimism about playing again this season if his recovery goes well.

Q3: What injuries has Jaylon Johnson dealt with in 2025?

He missed the start of the season with a groin injury and then suffered a new core muscle injury in Week 2 that required surgery.

Q4: Who else is injured on the Bears defense?

Cornerback Kyler Gordon has not played this season, and linebacker T.J. Edwards has also missed significant time.

Q5: How important is Johnson to the Bears defense?

Johnson is a key leader and one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks. His presence significantly strengthens Chicago’s secondary.