Bears CB Jaylon Johnson is switching jersey numbers

The Chicago Bears top cornerback is going to look a little different when he takes the field next season. Johnson is switching his jersey number from 33 to 1, according to the unofficial NFL Jersey Numbers X/Twitter account. The number, of course, was last worn by quarterback Justin Fields, who was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the offseason.

Chicago Bears DB Jaylon Johnson (@NBAxJay1) is now wearing number 1. Last worn by Justin Fields. #DaBears pic.twitter.com/sR0jwlh5oj

— NFL Jersey Numbers (@nfl_jersey_num) April 10, 2024

Johnson had worn No. 33 ever since he was drafted back in 2020. No. 1 was his college number, but he wasn’t allowed to wear it at the time due to the league’s jersey number restrictions for certain positions. Since that rule was modified in 2021, defensive backs, linebackers, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends can wear single-digit numbers. Johnson decided to take advantage, with Fields no longer on the team.

Bears jersey numbers are all the rage right now, with many fans wondering which numbers wide receiver Keenan Allen and likely new quarterback Caleb Williams will wear next season. Johnson decided to get in on the action and will become the first defensive back to wear No. 1 in team history.