NFL Combine Preview: 5 running backs Bears must have eyes on

Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
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As the Chicago Bears get ready to head to the NFL combine, they will have eyes on some of the running backs in the 2023 NFL draft. They may be losing David Montgomery in free agency, and while they have Khalil Herbert, they will certainly be looking for a running mate next to him, as he is not a three-down back.

If the Chicago Bears are looking for a strong complement to the talents of Herbert, who are the running backs that fans should be watching at the NFL combine.

5. Chicago Bears should be all over Roschon Johnson

A name the Chicago Bears should see as a great fit for the role is Roschon Johnson. Johnson is flying under the radar because he was a backup to Bijan Robinson. How can a backup in college be a great back? Well, if you are backing up Robinson we can probably cut him some slack.

What works for Johnson is that he was great at the Senior Bowl. Johnson is a fascinating player because he can provide value in a variety of ways. Johnson is a former quarterback, who was recruited by Texas to play QB. That brings an interesting leg to his game, but as he changed position, he kept a roster spot by excelling on special teams.

The team would use Roschon Johnson in pass protection situations and near the goal line because they could save some of the wear and tear from Bijan Robinson. What that does is shows the Chicago Bears he is a great fit for them.

Khalil Herbert is a big playback but does not push the pile, and he struggles in the passing game. Roschon Johnson and Khalil Herbert complement each other well.

The fact that Johnson was a backup helps his wear and tear entering the NFL. It also helps the Bears because they could see Roschon Johnson slip in the draft. The Chicago Bears should definitely have eyes on Johnson this weekend to see how his interviews, medicals and testing impact his stock.