Hidden Gem: Bears Rookie Poised to Surpass Expectations on Depth Chart
When it comes to the Chicago Bears' running back roster, there's a real sense of excitement brewing. While it may seem like the Bears have the position well-covered, don't let that fool you into thinking there won't be some fierce competition as preseason heats up.
Bears Host the Titans � A Key Moment for Johnson
On August 12, the Bears will host the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field for their first preseason game, and all eyes will be on rookie running back Roschon Johnson. Although Johnson currently falls behind incumbent Khalil Herbert and new free agent signing D'Onta Foreman, there's significant buzz that he could soon rise through the ranks.
In a recent examination of positional battles across NFL teams, ESPN's insider Courtney Cronin shared her thoughts specifically on the Chicago Bears' running back scenario. She wrote on August 7:
«Foreman and Herbert have split first-team reps, while OC Luke Getsy has been tinkering with using both backs as pass-catchers, something neither has done extensively throughout his career. All three are strong rushers, but who takes the top spot could hinge on pass protection, an area where Herbert has been working to improve this offseason. Although Foreman and Herbert have more experience, Johnson might boast the most potential as a three-down back.»
Johnson's Pass Blocking Skills Earn Praise
Johnson's abilities extend beyond just rushing. Tom Thayer, former Bears offensive lineman and current analyst, has been incredibly impressed with the rookie's pass blocking. Speaking on the team's official podcast on August 7, Thayer praised, «Roschon Johnson, I gotta say, is one of the best pass-blocking running backs I've ever seen enter the league as a rookie. What I've observed in Roschon, not just as a runner but in blocking, is as remarkable as it gets.»
Ready for Impact � Johnson's Expectations
The Bears' three preseason games will be crucial for Johnson, offering him much-needed experience. Though he acted as backup for the 2023 No. 8 overall pick, Bijan Robinson, his college career demonstrates the potency he brings to the team.
In his senior year (2022) at Texas, Johnson tallied 93 carries for 554 yards and five touchdowns, along with 14 catches for 128 yards and one touchdown. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 220 pounds, Johnson feels he's adapting well, as evidenced by his training camp performance. He eagerly anticipates the more physical aspects of the game, stating on August 4: «Once we get pads, I can get more physical, being in an actual game and having live reps, getting into the full swing of just playing a game.»
During his final season with the Longhorns, Johnson forced an impressive 46 missed tackles on 94 rushing attempts. His broken tackle rate of 5.1 ranked second in the nation, and he averaged over 5.0 yards per carry throughout his three-season tenure.
Expressing confidence in his own ability, Johnson added, «I know the talent that I possess, and I know what my capabilities are. So I know I'm more than capable of contributing to this team. Now, it's just about learning the system, playing faster, understanding the subtleties of the system so I can get out there, not overthink, and let my body take over.»
Roschon Johnson is a name that will likely dominate conversations as the Bears head into the preseason. His unique blend of skill, drive, and adaptability marks him as a potential game-changer. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this young player can rise to the occasion and stake his claim on a starting role. In a game full of variables, Johnson's prospects with the Bears are looking increasingly certain. Watch this space � there's plenty more to come.
| POLL | ||
8 AOUT | 44 ANSWERS Hidden Gem: Bears Rookie Poised to Surpass Expectations on Depth Chart Should the Bears start Johnson at running back? | ||
| yes | 19 | 43.2 % |
| No | 25 | 56.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
