Chicago Bears Free Agency: 5 potential cap casualties to sign
By Ryan Heckman
Running Back Duke Johnson, Houston Texans
Another running back option that could become available for the Bears is pass-catching extraordinaire Duke Johnson. Last season, Johnson was dealt to the Houston Texans and figured to be a large part of their back field. But, Carlos Hyde ended up taking control and Johnson slipped back into more of a passing downs guy again.
The Texans could save $4.1 million if the released Johnson, and he would be a phenomenal compliment to Montgomery.
What Johnson does best is exactly how Matt Nagy wants to use his running backs — in the passing game. Obviously, Nagy has shown a desire to commit more to the run. But, he needs versatile backs in his system, and Johnson is that kind of guy. He’s a crisp route runner for a running back and can line up anywhere.
This would mean the Bears either trade Tarik Cohen or use him strictly on special teams and in a few select packages on offense. I like Cohen, personally, but I think the Bears need a back with a little more size than his 5-foot-6 frame.
Johnson is a few inches taller and more experienced in being an all-around back. It almost seems as though Cohen has become stagnant in his development. He’s a one-trick pony, and many fans are tired of seeing him dance side to side instead of move forward. Johnson would be a nice change of pace.