3 bold predictions for Chicago Bears running backs in 2023

Before the preseason gets underway we have some thoughts about the Chicago Bears we want to get out there. There are plenty of questions about how the running back room will look, so why not take a stand or two, and a make a bold call about what will go down this season in Chicago.

3. D'onta Foreman leads the Chicago Bears in week one

There are plenty of questions about who the Chicago Bears' leading rusher will be. While it could change throughout the year, the top dog for week one should be D'onta Foreman. Khalil Herbert is a fan favorite and was explosive for the Bears last season.

However, the additions the Bears made at running back this offseason tell us what they think of Herbert. Herbert is not a power back and often kicks too many runs outside. The Bears wanted a between-the-tackles runner because they know that while Herbert is efficient, there is a point where he may get too many carries, and the efficiency will start to drop. As they use him now in his specific role, they are getting the most from his skills.

So, when you look at Herbert as a change of pace back, the other competition is rookie Roschon Johnson. He may step up soon, but that is tough to project for week one. Week one will probably be something like Foreman leading the way and carrying it around 60%, with Herbert getting the 40% of the timeshare.

Based on those performances and the growth of the depth behind them, things can change. However, the safe bet right now is to predict that the team runs behind Foreman, who can handle more rushing work than Herbert and can grind games out between the tackles.