Chicago Bears: Top candidates for regression in 2019

Running Back Mike Davis

This is kind of a funny one, because the Bears just signed Mike Davis this offseason. Why would they sign a guy who is likely to regress from last year? Well, like most of the guys on this list, Davis’ predicted regression is more a product of talent surrounding him.

First and foremost, rookie David Montgomery comes into a wonderful situation. Ryan Pace moved up in a draft with limited capital, already, to get him. That says a lot about the team’s belief in Montgomery.

There are plenty of carries for Montgomery to take on, and he’s the ideal every-down back who can handle the load. With the departure of Jordan Howard, Montgomery will now be “the” guy in Chicago.

Then, there is obviously Tarik Cohen. You cannot take touches away from a guy like that. Cohen is known as the most electric player on the team when the ball is in his hands, and there is no way Davis takes touches away from him.

So, look at Davis’ 2018 season real quick: 112 carries for 514 yards and four touchdowns; 34 receptions (on 42 targets) for 214 yards and a score.

As the third back in Chicago, there is absolutely no chance Davis gets 146 total touches, and without an injury ahead of him (God forbid) he isn’t going to eclipse 728 yards from scrimmage. The touches simply aren’t there.

Davis is a talented back, and is probably one of the best (if not the very best) third-string running backs in all of the NFL. This is now a position of luxury for the Bears. Look at it that way.