It's time to start having a conversation about one Chicago Bears player who could end up being a proven instant contributor on the team in 2025.
New Bears head coach Ben Johnson is introducing a new style of offense to Chicago, one that will unleash a flood of creativity. Last year's offensive unit was the worst-ranked group in the NFL, as they struggled to protect Caleb Williams or do anything to open up the running game.
All that changed in the offseason with three new additions to the interior offensive line: Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson. A welcoming sight for starting running back D'Andre Swift, who, for the first time in his career, had under four yards per carry in the season.
Swift isn't the only running back on the roster who is going to benefit from this. In fact, one might be able to overtake Swift in carries and yards if things work out in Johnson's offense.
Roschon Johnson is ready to move on from sophomore slump with massive 2025 campaign
The former 2023 fourth-round pick showed promise in his rookie season with his 4.3 yards per carry and two touchdowns, but would suffer the same fate as Swift did in 2024 with a tough season. Johnson averaged just 2.7 yards per carry and had a career-low 150 yards, but did top his touchdown mark with six.
With the offensive line troubles in run blocking, Johnson's production, like the other backs on the team, suffered. There is hope that Johnson can bounce back in 2025 in a big way.
The 225-pound back has shown glimpses of what he is capable of. He ran a 4.58-second 40-yard dash at the 2023 NFL Combine, indicating he has decent speed. Johnson also has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
Comparing him to what the Detroit Lions had with Ben Johnson as their offensive coordinator, Roschon Johnson would be comparable to David Montgomery. A steady back who can do a bit of everything well and get the tough yards needed. Swift is a bit smaller back compared to Roschon Johnson, so he can be the Jahmyr Gibbs of the offense.
The Swift-Johnson combo in the backfield could end up being a dangerous one. A group that Johnson would benefit from as he is looking for a breakout season.
Ben Johnson has a unique way of using his running backs in the offense, which can only help Swift and Roschon Johnson. Running back was a position of concern for the Bears, but it actually looks like it could be their greatest strength.
Read more: NFL personnel praise Tremaine Edmunds (but must address one lingering concern)
Watch out for Roschon Johnson to have a breakout 2025 season that will set the tone for the rest of his tenure with the Bears.