Helming the Chicago Bears with his standout skills, Jaylon Johnson‘s success story is incomplete without mentioning his parents! Back in March this year, he signed a massive contract extension deal with the Bears worth $76 million, along with a guaranteed $47.8 million.

Entering the NFL fields in the 2020 draft, he was also named to the 2024 Pro Bowl. For the 2024 season, he has strived to continuously push himself as he aims for at least five interceptions. And, seeing their son’s drive and enthusiasm, no one is as proud as his parents, John Johnson Sr. and Carmella Rochelle Johnson. Even Jaylon never fails to credit them for their consistent support, elemental to his journey.

Who are John Johnson Sr. and Carmella Johnson?

Jaylon’s dad, John Johnson Sr. has established an athletic legacy of his own. Serving as a former defensive backs coach in Fresno, California, he is also a proud alumnus of Fresno University. He taught his son one key philosophy, which is to never seek shortcuts. He wanted his son to master his craft and seek freedom in it.

John always knew his son possessed the drive. The Athletic’s article from 2019 highlighted Jonson Sr.’s confidence in him, as he adds, “He’s got that special s–t. Jaylon’s going to the league, man.” And, John always pushed him to grow. The same article notes how he kept it real through tough love. “He knows if he sh–s his pants, he ain’t going to be a first-rounder. I’m just keeping it real. We don’t kiss Jaylon’s a–. We keep it real!”

On the other hand, his mom, Carmella, was always there as his emotional anchor. And she wears multiple hats as well. Mama Johnson has established her identity as a self-care coach and author. She has also founded the non-profit “Arise PowerHouse,” which is a mental and emotional self-care program that is meant for women. She asked her son to focus on things even if things got difficult. Her philosophy is simple, even if things get competitively difficult, “do it anyway.”

It was Carmella who taught Jaylon the value of faith. After his massive contract with the Bears, Jaylon reflected on his sentiments toward his mom in a press conference. Bears mentioned his remarks in one of their article published back in March 2024. “My mom showed me what strong faith looks like… She has been a big influence on my relationship with God.” Indeed, both of his parents have molded him in significant ways.

How has Jaylon’s father been a significant influence in his NFL career?

Having a strong mind is more important than talent. Jaylon’s dad always taught him the importance of training the mind and building self-motivation. In the article by the Chicago Bears from March 2024, Jaylon notes, “He taught me how to get my mind right to perform, and I’ve done that since I was a little boy.”

John wanted his son to face challenges head-on and believed in a no-nonsense approach. He made him practice the oven way. In The Athletic’s article from 2019, he notes, “The microwave way is instant, it’s right now — an oven, you’ve got to warm it up, let it cook, it takes longer, but it still gets done, and it might taste a little better.”

When Jaylon Johnson received the contract extension from the Bears, he accompanied his son for the announcement at Halas Hall in March 2024, along with Carmella. The Johnsons are truly proud of their son, as he continues to strive to achieve new heights.