Rookie's Impressive Preseason Puts Bears' Running Back on the Chopping Block.
The Chicago Bears made strategic moves this offseason, focusing on securing value at the running back position. Yet, this strategy might leave one player on the fringe.
Earlier in March, the Bears signed D'Onta Foreman to a one-year deal worth $2 million and later chose Roschon Johnson from Texas in the fourth-round draft. Khalil Herbert, the team's backup running back for two years, is still on the roster with an enticing rookie contract. Initially considered the frontrunner for the starting position this season, Herbert seems set to continue in that role as the opening week nears.
However, Johnson's performance has edged Foreman out in the race for the backup position, as revealed in an update from Adam Jahns of The Athletic on August 23.
Johnson has lived up to the Bears' expectations since his draft. Even as Herbert remains the anticipated starter, Johnson's on-field time has been on the rise since the opening of the camp. Consequently, Foreman's position in the pecking order looks uncertain.
Bears running backs coach David Walker said, «We initially had a set rotation, but Johnson has rightfully earned his time,» referencing the report by Jahns.
The shift of Foreman to the third-choice is a surprise, especially after his noteworthy stint with Carolina. But this move emphasizes the Bears' confidence in the Herbert-Johnson combination.
In 2022, Herbert recorded 731 rushing yards and four touchdowns from 129 carries, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. He also had nine receptions, totaling 57 yards and a touchdown. These stats are expected to surge in 2023, even with Johnson in the mix.
Previously, Herbert operated in the shadow of David Montgomery for two seasons. But with Montgomery's transfer to the Detroit Lions, Herbert is primed for the leading role. Based on the Bears' previous game strategies, Herbert's carries might see a substantial increase this season.
As for Johnson, if he secures the backup position over Foreman, his NFL journey will start similarly to his college days�playing second fiddle. At Texas, he was the understudy to Bijan Robinson, the eighth overall pick in this year's draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
Despite being a backup in Texas, Johnson managed 1,123 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns from 189 carries over two seasons, averaging nearly 6 yards per attempt. He also registered 25 receptions for 211 yards and a touchdown during this period.
Herbert shared high praise for Johnson recently. «He's a powerhouse in action. Everyone's thrilled about his blend of force and speed. He seems to have it all," Herbert commented, as reported by USA Today's Browns Wire.
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