Chicago Bears: Five Late Round Draft Running Backs

If the Chicago Bears wait until later in the 2019 NFL draft to go running back, they should look into these options.

With Jordan Howard traded it is now clear that the Chicago Bears will draft at least one running back this spring. While many assume that they will take the best back that falls to pick 87, that is still a very volatile draft spot. If the Bears do not see a top back available, or think they can wait to get their guy, they should.

They did a good job of signing free agents to avoid needs-based drafting and the Howard trade does not change that. With that in mind, these five backs may fall later into the draft, but could be great options in Chicago.

Devine Ozigbo

After three seasons as a complimentary back, Devine Ozigbo finally broke out in 2018 going for over 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns. Still, the one-year wonder label did not get him an invite to the combine, causing him to remain in late round sleeper range.

Ozigbo is an interesting late round prospect because he carries a large frame, checking in over 220 pounds. Still, while he certainly has power he can cut quick, and can also contribute in the passing game. This gives him upside of a three-down back in a draft range where you typically get specialist players.

His vision can come and go, and last year he relied on his explosiveness to evade tackles. Still, that showed upside that can handle a role in the NFL.

Ozigbo is not a complete back, but can fill a role where he is asked to run between the tackles, pass block and catch out of the backfield. He possesses questions in seeing a bigger workload, but at his draft slot he can slot in as a Benny Cunningham upgrade with upside to be more.