Here are two running back the Bears should target in the draft in Montgomery's replacement.
With David Montgomery set to play for the Lions this season, the Bears are left searching for a new lead running back. It seems that the recently reported signing of Travis Homer indicates that the team is comfortable moving forward with Khalil Herbert as their primary back, with plans to draft a rookie to complement him. However, the offseason is known for surprises, and the Bears could always make a big move to acquire a top-tier rusher to lead the backfield. In case the team decides to fill out their running back group with a rookie, here are five potential candidates that Ryan Poles might consider.
Zach Charbonnet
In order to replicate David Montgomery's contribution to the team on a budget-friendly rookie contract, UCLA's Zach Charbonnet would be an ideal choice for the Bears. With a similar build to Montgomery (Charbonnet: 6'0», 214 lbs; Montgomery: 5'11», 224 lbs), Charbonnet's playing style is also comparable. He, like Montgomery, depends on his power, balance, and agility to accumulate yards, rather than his speed. He is efficient as a receiver from the backfield and is reliable in pass protection. Charbonnet's approach complements Khalil Herbert's style well and provides the Bears with a well-rounded running back roster.
Charbonnet is a physical running back who excels at power football. His aggressive running style is marked by a determined approach and a combination of strength and balance that enables him to power through tackles. Although Charbonnet may not possess the same level of athleticism and speed as other running backs in the 2023 class, his style is highly translatable to success at the NFL level, making him a solid choice for teams seeking a reliable, no-nonsense running back.
Bijan Robinson
Undoubtedly the standout of this year's running back class, Robinson is being hailed by many draft experts as the most electrifying RB prospect since Saquon Barkley's 2018 entry into the league, and it's easy to see why. His speed, elusiveness, strength, and ability to make plays in the passing game make him a highly coveted prospect. In fact, according to PFF, Robinson broke the NCAA record for the most missed tackles forced in a single season with 104, a record previously held by David Montgomery. However, the Bears will likely have to use a first-round pick to acquire Robinson, which may not be the best use of resources given the team's more pressing needs at premium positions.
Chad Reuter has detailed the impressive career of running back Robinson, who made a name for himself as a high school football star in Arizona before becoming one of the most highly recruited players in the country. After joining Texas in 2020, Robinson made an immediate impact as a true freshman, leading the Longhorns in rushing yards and breaking the school record for yards per carry. In his sophomore season, Robinson continued to impress, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors while leading the conference in rushing yards and all-purpose yards per game. His final season was even more impressive, as he won the prestigious Doak Walker Award and was named a first-team Associated Press All-American and All-Big 12 selection. Despite his success, Robinson opted out of the Alamo Bowl, signaling his readiness to take the next step in his career.
| POLL | ||
15 MARS | 86 ANSWERS Here are two running back the Bears should target in the draft in Montgomery's replacement. Who would you prefer that the Bears target in the draft? | ||
| Zach Charbonnet | 32 | 37.2 % |
| Bijan Robinson | 54 | 62.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
