During an offseason where the Chicago Bears made some notable additions at positions of need on offense, including quarterback and tight end, it’s the running back position that was ignored and remains a concern heading into the 2020 season.
ESPN took a look at every running back group in the NFL, and they believe the Bears have the shakiest running back situation. Which makes a little sense given the lack of depth behind David Montgomery and Tarik Cohen.
This is one of the situations where “it’s all relative” really comes into play. Could David Montgomery and Tarik Cohen put together a solid or exceptional season? Absolutely. However, it’s not hard to identify more proven and effective backs on the other 31 rosters. Montgomery underwhelmed on 267 touches as a third-round rookie last season, whereas Cohen posted atrocious yardage numbers on a per-carry (3.3) and per-target (4.4) basis. Furthermore, Chicago’s depth is also arguably weakest in the league.
There’s a ton of hype surrounding Montgomery heading into his second season. And it’s easy to see why. He had 889 rushing yards and six touchdowns. He also added 25 receptions for 185 yards and a score. Montgomery surpassed 1,000 all-purpose yards as a rookie.
That despite the overall struggles of the run game, including the offensive line and Matt Nagy’s aversion to the run. Montgomery hasn’t gotten a fair shake, which will certainly change in 2020 given the increased focus that’s been placed on finding a balance on offense.
Any concerns from the run game don’t stem from Montgomery or Cohen. Rather, the lack of depth behind them. Two unproven players in Ryan Nall and undrafted rookie Artavis Pierce will battle for the third running back spot, which will ultimately serve as Montgomery’s backup.
The Bears would do well to bring in a veteran running back to compete for that third spot. But, at least at this point, they seem content with the options on the roster.
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