2016 East West Shrine Game Recap (Offense)

Running Back:

The Bears are set at running back for the moment, but that could change quickly if they allow Matt Forte to leave in free agency. Rookie Jeremy Langford looks like a keeper, but HC John Fox has always preferred a RB rotation and they could add another back in the draft if Forte signs elsewhere.

Josh Ferguson, Illini – Followed up a good week of practice with a solid performance in game. Ferguson showed impressive quickness, vision, and toughness for a small back (5’10 | 200). He couldn’t make a tough catch on a screen pass behind him, but did have four catches on the day and 44 total yards. Ferguson should stick at the next level as a 3rd down / change-of-pace back which the Bears don’t really have on the roster unless they re-sign Jacquizz Rodgers.

Daniel Lasco, Cal – Missed most of the 2015 season with an injury and didn’t get a lot of touches during the Shrine game, but made them count leading all rushers with 62 yards on just six carries. The highlight was a 42-yard run where he showed excellent burst and smooth change-of-direction ability. Lasco’s injury history will hurt his draft stock, but he proved that he has NFL ability and could end up being a steal on day 3 of the draft.

Devon “Rockhead” Johnson, Marshall – Missed the game due to a family issue but had a good week of practice, impressing scouts with an explosive burst through the line and good power. The Bears could use a short-yardage specialist and Johnson has the size (6’1 | 253) to be one and the speed (4,52) to be more.