The Chicago Bears' running back room has been a big topic of converstion, with D'Andre Swift demanding attention at Roschon Johnson and Kyle Monangai have worthwhile attention paid to them.
They deserve it, yet that doesn't mean that it's a worthwhile call. Regardless, it's become clear that the franchise wants to replace Johnson.
Whether that's true or not, Johnson isn't long for the organization. The rookie Kyle Monangai clearly has a role behind Swift and should be considered a long-term option at running back, leaving Johnson on the outside looking in at a key position.
#Bears 7th round pick Kyle Monangai (Rutgers).
— Matt Bowen (@MattBowen41) April 29, 2025
5-foot-8, 211. Low pad level + contact balance. Sudden footwork — with short-area acceleration. Can shake defenders in the open field. Production on underneath throws. pic.twitter.com/U5F5iBjK9n
Bears RB Should Count His Days in Chicago After Roster Cuts
Whether it's fair or not, Johnson looks like the third-string running back in this depth chart. Still just 24 years old, Johnson has a clear case to make that he should be D'Andre Swift's backup, though it's hard to argue that the coaching staff feels the same way.
New head coach Ben Johnson has prioritized his own selections, including Monangai, which puts Johnson on thin ice all things considered. During his tenure in Chicago, Johnson has just over 500 rushing yards while serving a limited role as a receiving option. He's a good, yet unspectacular player, and no one should think he's got 1,000 yards in his future.
Johnson can be a duel-threat option who provides value to a variety of NFL teams. There's no question about that. The only uncertatinty is about whether or not he can make an impact during on-field plays. Few think he can, but that's less relevant than Johnson's plate discipine is.
Monangai has seemingly taken Johnson's job and that's what's most important. Johnson lost his gig, but he's a talented player nonetheless. He'll be a third-string running back moving forward yet has a stranglehold on his gig.