Chicago Bears: 4 players facing make-or-break seasons in 2020
By Ryan Heckman
1. Running Back Tarik Cohen
In today’s NFL, running back is the most replaceable position there is. We have seen it time and time again in recent years. Running backs don’t get paid — especially not no. 2 running backs. The Bears’ clear and away number one guy is David Montgomery, and I think we see a step forward for him in 2020.
For Tarik Cohen, this year is especially important if he is to earn a decent payday next spring when he hits free agency. To earn that cash, though, he has to take his efficiency up several notches.
Overall this past season, Cohen averaged just 4.67 yards per touch, with his rushes and receptions thrown together. Splitting it down further, Cohen posted just 3.33 yards per carry and 5.77 yards per reception.
To put that last number in perspective, Cohen averaged a ridiculous 10.2 yards per reception in 2018 and 6.7 yards per reception as a rookie in 2017.
Must Read. Bears offense lacking at critical positions. light
It was blatantly clear that Cohen was far less committed to his next move in 2019. Cohen took a handoff or a pass and was far more indecisive with the ball from the get-go. He is a heck of a lot better when he simply takes the football and has one goal in mind: Getting upfield no matter the cost.
See, for his size, Cohen is actually much stronger and apt to breaking tackles than most. We saw it very early in his career — think back to the preseason game in 2017 against the Arizona Cardinals. He was busting loose and shedding tacklers left and right.
Maybe it’s a mental problem (hopefully) but Cohen has to find himself once again in 2020. He can be a phenomenal playmaker when he’s at his best. He’s electric. But, he has to commit to the play like he once did.