Chicago Bears Training Camp Preview: Running backs
By Usayd Koshul
1. Who’s a lock to make the roster?
At this point, there are only three players that are locks to make the roster: David Montgomery, Tarik Cohen, and Mike Davis. Each of these three adds something to the Bears backfield. Additionally, each of the three has some unique talent that will shine in 2019.
David Montgomery
The Bears didn’t trade up 14 spots in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft for no reason. They did so because they believe that Montgomery can be the NFL’s next big thing at running back. Additionally, Montgomery was also deemed to be an ideal fit for Matt Nagy’s offense. It’s fair to expect Montgomery to be a full-time starter by mid-October, maybe even earlier depending on how he performs the first few weeks of the regular season.
Tarik Cohen
In Matt Nagy’s offense, Cohen was all over the place in 2018. In 2019, it’s fair to expect the same. Cohen’s versatile skillset allows him to make an impact from any area on the field. His speed and receiving skills make him a dangerous weapon in the passing game, while the Bears offense can dial up Jet Sweeps for him so that he can coast past defenses. Cohen had a solid year last year and in 2019, it’s fair to expect him to have an even bigger impact.
Mike Davis
At first, the signing of Mike Davis may not have excited fans considering there were more talented players on the Bears roster, however, Davis could prove to be a steal if he stays healthy. One of the major reasons that the Bears decided to sign Davis was because, like Montgomery, he was an ideal fit inside Matt Nagy’s offense. Davis is coming off a year where he averaged 6.3 yards per reception and 4.6 yards per carry. He doesn’t need to be a workhorse for the Bears, just someone who is consistent.