Chicago Bears: Underrated running backs in 2019 NFL Draft

Darwin Thompson, Utah State

As a guy who hasn’t had a ton of experience at the FBS level, Darwin Thompson would be more of a risky, developmental pick. But, I think he’s quite the mystery because of his one year at Utah State.

Thompson is incredibly raw. He shows a lot of potential as a back you could give 8-10 touches per game, though. He is undersized at 5-foot-8, 190 pounds, but the one thing nobody can argue is that he puts forth the effort of a much bigger back.

Two of the common words used when describing Thompson are “slippery” and “elusive.” Because of his size, he reminds me a bit of Cohen. Thompson doesn’t have quite the speed of Cohen, but his ability to turn nothing into something — and sometimes more — is desirable.

Last year, Thompson averaged nearly seven yards per carry and scored 14 touchdowns on the ground. He also showed a strong ability to gain yardage after the catch and averaged over 15 yards per reception.

The Bears could truly utilize three backs eventually, with Thompson involved on short yardage and even third downs. He has a lot to learn with the little things, such as footwork and patience, but I have no doubt under Nagy and his staff that Thompson’s development would be in good hands.