Chicago Bears: 5 biggest concerns despite 2-0 start
By Ryan Heckman
2. Running back depth
The Bears got a scare early on Sunday afternoon when David Montgomery went out with what was called a neck injury. Typically, a neck injury is one of the more scary occurrences. It could have ended his season. Thankfully, the Bears got Montgomery back and he finished with an outstanding game overall.
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For a moment, though, Bears fans’ worst nightmare came true. Without Montgomery, the Bears were close to leaning on Ryan Nall, Tarik Cohen and Cordarrelle Patterson. Maybe they could have done that for a single game. But, if Montgomery’s injury was serious, the Bears would have been in trouble.
One interesting facet of the game on Sunday was Cohen’s usage. After extending him for over $17 million, the team’s next move was to give him just six touches — six.
Sure, Cohen offers some special teams value as well. But, you don’t pay a guy that kind of money only to give him six touches the following game. If he’s not someone you can truly depend on in the event of an injury to Montgomery, what’s the point of that kind of cash?
That’s a different debate for another day. But, the point remains. Without Montgomery, the Bears would be in a world of hurt. Not bringing in a true backup running back looks to have been a mistake.