Why former Ute Jaylon Johnson didn’t shout out Utah on Sunday Night Football
The Chicago Bears cornerback was a two-time All-Pac-12 selection during his time at Utah
(Jae C. Hong | AP) Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Van Jefferson (12) can't hold on to a pass as Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson defends during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in Inglewood, Calif.
Jaylon Johnson was trying to make a statement on Sunday Night Football.
Just not the statement some college football fans thought.
When the Chicago Bears cornerback was introduced during a nationally broadcast matchup with the Los Angeles Rams, Johnson shouted out Central High School instead of the University of Utah, where he twice earned All-Pac-12 honors during his time with the Utes.
The introduction caught some Utah fans by surprise.
Turns out, Johnson merely wants to spread a positive message to kids growing up in his hometown.
“I’m going to represent Fresno and [Central High School football] every chance I get,” Johnson tweeted Monday. “I want to inspire the youth and let them see someone who was in there [sic] shoes once make it. That it is possible. Everyone knows [Utah football] has dogs in the league. I want everyone to know Fresno has it too!!”
The Rams beat the Bears 34-13 on Sunday, but Johnson had five tackles and one pass defended on the night.
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