Chicago Bears: Tarik Cohen is going to play a lot of receiver in 2018

Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen talked to reporters Wednesday about how different his role will be in the offense for 2018.

The Chicago Bears surprised fans a few days ago and let Cameron Meredith walk. While many are now questioning what the team will do to fill the void, head coach Matt Nagy seems to have a plan in place. Of course, that plan likely includes drafting another receiver. However, one of their own guys is about to step up in a big way — and he’s not a wideout.

Running back Tarik Cohen spoke to the media on Wednesday and addressed the question of how he is going to be used in 2018 under Nagy’s command. He immediately told us all that he is going to be used much more as a receiver and that he has his focus on improving at that position.

"“Right now, I see a lot of versatility. You know, not with just myself … with the tight ends, the other running backs as well … The coaches have really emphasized that not only I will be moving around a lot, but the other players will too.”“They’ve seen what I can do already at running back … even though I’m still out there at running back, you know … it’s just right now, more receiver, and I’m just getting ready.”"

Cohen was asked which aspect of playing wide receiver he’s focused on sharpening most right now.

"“Route running. When you catch the ball out of the backfield it is from a different angle than catching as a receiver.”"

More from Chicago Bears

• Chicago Bears quietly compiling list of head coaching candidates
• Next Chicago Bears starting quarterback makes Bowl Game decision
• Chicago Bears appear in the hunt while on track for the first pick
• Chicago Bears: They are who we thought they were
• Chicago Bears Rumors: Kevin Warren to oversee football operations

Cohen also spoke about how much love he’s gotten from national media and appearing on top play highlights across the league. His response was pretty telling about how he’s approaching the season.

"“I really feel like I haven’t done anything yet. I wasn’t in the Pro Bowl. I’m not really not a definite  household name yet. I feel like I have a lot more to prove.”"

Well, if Cohen’s attitude and insight into what the offense will be like is any indication of what to expect out of him in his sophomore season, I think we’re all in for an enormous year out of him. He’s definitely a special player who did not benefit from poor coaching during his rookie campaign.

Fans can expect a lot of Cohen as a receiver, from the looks of it — and it makes sense. I’m not worried about his height. He’s quick enough. He’s strong enough. His hands are phenomenal. Cohen can line up anywhere you want him to and be a difference-maker.

Next: 7 receivers Bears have met with

Nagy’s usage of his second-year running back is going to be one of the biggest storylines heading into the 2018 season. Expectations will be high, and fans already can’t wait to see what Cohen will do.