Chicago Bears fans are hoping the injury bug stops biting. Specifically, both of the top two running backs have had some injury scares within the past few weeks.
Kyle Monangai looked to have suffered a serious leg injury at first glance, a few weeks ago, but thankfully, he avoided anything long-term.
Just this week as the Bears wrapped up one particular practice, D'Andre Swift left the field with what was feared to be an injury. Alas, we found out the pain was only due to cramping.
But both situations have left fans thinking more realistically about what would happen if either one went down. Chicago has Roschon Johnson as their third running back and also has Salvon Ahmed and Zavier Scott on the practice squad.
But, who else could become available if the Bears needed someone quickly?
Bears fans should keep an eye on these practice squad running backs just in case
Dare Ogunbowale, Las Vegas Raiders practice squad
The former Wisconsin Badger has been around the league a while. Ogunbowale would be the perfect third-down back to pick up in a pinch. He is known for his pass-blocking ability but has also caught over 100 passes since 2017.
Jaleel McLaughlin, Cleveland Browns practice squad
Once standing out as a regular part of the Denver Broncos offense not too long ago, Jaleel McLaughlin is now stashed on the Browns' practice squad. In three seasons as a complementary back, McLaughlin has rushed 226 times for 1,093 yards and three scores. But he also has 59 career receptions.
McLaughlin would be another multifaceted back who could succeed in both the ground and passing attack if the Bears needed someone on short notice. Plus, he has a roundabout connection with the Bears, having spent time with former Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle during their time together in Denver.
Michael Carter, Tennessee Titans practice squad
After a strong rookie season with the New York Jets that saw him rush for 639 yards and total 325 receiving yards back in 2021, Michael Carter spent some time with the Arizona Cardinals.
One thing that hasn't changed about his game, though, is that he is a reliable receiver, totaling 145 receptions for 1,038 yards in his career.
Because the Bears use multiple backs, Carter wouldn't be a bad compliment if needed.
Carson Steele, Philadelphia Eagles practice squad
A preseason darling as a rookie just a couple of years ago, the former Kansas City Chief is now in Philadelphia. Should Chicago be in need of a hard-nosed, short-yardage back, then Steele could be intriguing.
He's only rushed 56 times for 183 yards (all coming as a rookie in 2024), but with how good the Bears' offensive line should be, he's someone to look out for if Chicago needs someone to take those shorter carries.
Craig Reynolds, Washington Commanders practice squad
Finally, the most interesting name is over in Washington. Craig Reynolds spent plenty of time with Ben Johnson in Detroit as a backup for five years with the Lions. He's someone who knows Johnson's offense and has filled in nicely as both a runner and pass catcher when called upon.
None of these backs would be somebody the Bears could count on for multiple games, taking on a prominent role, but they're worth watching at least over the first couple of weeks of the season.
Read more: Bears' latest contract restructures could be setting up something much bigger
The scares with both Swift and Monangai could have led to the Bears being running back-needy. Thankfully, that doesn't appear to be the case. But it's always worth knowing what's out there. If left unprotected by their respective teams, these backs could be snatched by the Bears if Chicago were in need.
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