Podcast: Previewing the Chicago Bears running backs
By Will DeWitt
Even though there have been plenty of changes for the Chicago Bears throughout the offseason, it’s easy to see that Ryan Pace has placed an emphasis in overhauling the running back position.
Despite the fact that David Montgomery was a top-five running back last year, there are some intriguing new additions to the backfield that should leave Bears fans excited.
In this episode of The Chicago Audible, the guys continue their annual summer series “Countdown to Camp” — where they go episode-by-episode previewing every position (and player) on the Chicago Bears — the guys share their in-depth preview (and discussion on) the running backs.
What should we expect from the Chicago Bears backfield?
The answer is a complicated one, as a lot of the productions (or lack thereof) will be determinant on how well the new-look offensive line plays.
Even though Montgomery finished as the NFL’s fifth-most productive rusher, it felt like there was plenty of yardage left on the table. How will Montgomery benefit from what should be improved blocking, and how can he take his game to the next level in Year 3?
Chicago had to play most of its season without Tarik Cohen after he tore his ACL in Week 3. Should fans expect him to be 100% ready by Week 1? And when Cohen does see playing time, what type of role will he have in the offense?
After a year off (due to opting out of 2020), Damien Williams was a surprise cut in Kansas City. Now a Bear, Williams provides Chicago with another all-purpose back behind Montgomery. What type of qualities does Williams bring to the table, and how much of the load can (and should) he carry this season?
And don’t forget about the sixth-round rookie in Khalil Herbert. After proving he can be a productive rusher at the collegiate level, and be a tackle-breaking monster along the way, does he have a chance to make his presence felt in his first season? Plus, how do all of these changes affect guys vying for roster spots like Ryan Nall and Artavis Pierce?
The guys also make some season stat predictions for the unit, play some over/under and discuss a few additional superlatives along the way. And of course, they stay true to form (adhering to their promise to discuss every player on the roster heading into training camp) by making sure they share which players fighting for roster spots have the best chance of making the team.
Which running backs will make the team? How will the carries be split? And what should we expect from the entire rotation in 2021?
As always, the guys at The Chicago Audible, have you covered.
Other positional preview episodes:
Chicago Bears Offensive Line Preview
Chicago Bears Defensive Line Preview
Chicago Bears Tight End Preview
Chicago Bears Linebacker Preview
Chicago Bears Wide Receiver Preview
Chicago Bears Special Teams Preview
Chicago Bears Cornerback Preview
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