Bears' biggest 2026 matchups: Jaylon Johnson vs. Jayden Reed

Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson had an abbreviated 2025 season, as he couldn’t truly enjoy Chicago’s first trip to the postseason since 2020. He injured himself in training camp and the adductor injury he suffered lingered throughout the season. As a result, Johnson played only seven games, not even reaching half a season. His presence was missed on a defense that ranked 22nd in the NFL in passing yards allowed. 

But all signs seem to point to the former Utah star being healthy and ready to go this year. Johnson will likely get to play a lot of man defense again and get to play against teams’ No. 1 receivers. And at this point, that has to be Jayden Reed for the Green Bay Packers.

The Packers’ wide receiver room was busy this offseason. Romeo Doubs fled for New England, Dontayvion Wicks got sent to Philadelphia, and the team invested into both Reed and Christian Watson. Second-year receiver Matthew Golden from Texas will be one to watch, but Reed figures to be their best wideout this coming year.

But just like Johnson, Reed comes into this season following an injury-riddled 2025. He also only played seven games and wasn’t able to become a significant contributor. In 2023 and 2024, the former Western Michigan standout put up great numbers. He put together 119 receptions on 169 targets and 12 drops over two seasons according to Pro Football Reference. Reed put up 1,650 yards with 14 receiving touchdowns. While that came across 33 games and 23 starts, those numbers obviously would pop off for any single season. So the Packers’ hope has to be that Reed can put that together himself.

According to Pro Football Reference, Jaylon Johnson has allowed a completion percentage of 59% in his career. He’s been very effective. While he allowed 66.1 percent of all targets to be completed in 2024, he still was a Pro Bowler with two interceptions to his name too.

Jayden Reed might not be Packers No. 1 WR, but he's still a formidable challenge

Now, of course, will Reed actually be the No. 1 WR? It's yet to be seen, especially with Christian Watson and the giant investment they made in him. But Watson has had issues over the years in staying on the field. He's yet to play a full season in his four years in the league and competed in just 10 games a year ago. Reed didn't play much either a year ago but had 33 games under his belt before last season. So if it comes down to who's on the field, Reed has been a much safer bet than Watson.

Caleb WIlliams and Jordan Love will get all the marquee attraction for the Bears-Packers games set to come this year. After three thrillers last year, it’s exciting to ponder what’s in store for arguably the most storied rivalry in the NFL. With both players set to return fully healthy, Jayden Reed and Jaylon Johnson should have fascinating matchups this coming season on the field.