Chicago Bears NFL Draft: 3 running backs to add for insurance

Running backs the Chicago Bears could target for insurance in the Draft: Keaton Mitchell, East Carolina

Unlike the previous two guys, this last running back is small in stature and what many outlets are calling “lightning in a bottle.” East Carolina running back Keaton Mitchell stands only 5-foot-8 and weighed in at 179 pounds. But, he ran a blistering 4.37 in his 40-yard dash and that came as no surprise to anyone who had watched a lick of his tape.

This guy is a big play waiting to happen, and chances are, you won’t have to wait long. He led the nation in 10-plus yard carries last season with a whopping 54 of them. If you give him just a little bit of space, look out.

Fans who loved watching what Tarik Cohen could do before his career sadly ended will see plenty of similarities with Mitchell. He has that sudden burst that comes instantaneously with a one-cut mentality. All he needs is a slight opening, and he’ll make the right cut, and be off to the races.

Mitchell is also a natural catcher of the football, which the Bears could use. Not that Foreman or Herbert can’t do it, but the most reliable third down back on the roster might just be Homer, and Mitchell has a much more explosive skillset than Homer does.

If any of these three are available at the right price on Day 3, don’t be surprised if Poles takes the opportunity to add just one more weapon for Justin Fields and the offense. This is the year Poles gives Fields zero excuses to succeed.