Chicago Bears fans expected new head coach Ben Johnson to lean on the running game this season. Johnson has since lived up to that expectation, as the Bears have rushed the ball 27.3 times per game so far, which is tied for the 12th-highest average in the NFL.
That said, that does not mean the Bears' rushing attack has been efficient. Against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 3, Chicago had a combined 29 carries for 87 yards. If that abysmal production continues, Chicago might have to completely abandon the running game, which is something Johnson doesn't want to do.
Therefore, it would be in the Bears' best interest to search the trade market for a potential upgrade. Luckily, multiple 0-3 teams that could be looking to sell before November's trade deadline, with New York Jets running back Breece Hall being a tantalizing trade target.
Bears Must Explore a Trade for Jets RB Breece Hall
Bears fans have been questioning the running back room since the NFL draft. Although Chicago did draft Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai in the seventh round, many Bears fans thought the team should have drafted an RB with more upside. Unfortunately, Johnson has yet to use the rookie much early in the season and might prefer another veteran presence alongside D'Andre Swift instead.
Hall would be the perfect player. The 24-year-old runner was subjected to trade rumors in the summer (h/t Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio), and while nothing came to pass, Chicago was one of the destinations rumored. The former second-round pick would be a perfect fit in the Bears' offense, especially after amassing 3,860 scrimmage yards and 22 touchdowns on 710 touches in the first 43 games of his career.
Hall not only runs with speed, but he also runs with power. In his three previous seasons, he has never rushed for less than three yards after contact, according to Pro Football Focus. Compare that to Swift, who has recorded just one season with three yards after contact.
That's a stark difference that could really help the Bears' offense. While Monangai was brought in for his power running, he doesn't possess the same kind of speed as Hall. For that reason, Hall would be a huge upgrade for the Bears' offense.
If the Hall came in and boosted the offense, Chicago would surely extend him. Currently, Swift has one more year on his three-year $24 million contract. Nevertheless, there is an opt-out after this season, per Spotrac, which right now seems likely to be taken. Hall is due a new contract after the year; however, his being two years younger than Swift makes him a more viable long-term option.
Considering how many teams would love someone like Hall in their backfield, Bears general manager Ryan Poles must call the Jets as soon as possible.