This training camp battle will cost one Chicago Bears player a roster spot

The Chicago Bears' top three running backs are set. You could argue that D’Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert, and Roschon Johnson could all compete for their split of the workload in 2024, but we all know that running backs are going to get their split divided up based on injuries and issues throughout the year. 

The Chicago Bears will have competition at running back in training camp

Still, the Bears are likely to keep a fourth running back on the roster, but the question is which one. They have Travis Homer, who was on the roster last year and would look to be the leader in the clubhouse to make the roster this year. Then, there is Ian Wheeler, the new name, the fresh face, and the player who will push Homer. 

The reality is that this competition will come down to special teams. Homer had 253 special teams snaps and just six offensive snaps, which tells you everything you need to know. 

However, his role is more of a standard special teams role. He chases down kicks and punts, and he is the personal protector on the punt unit. He has value. Meanwhile, if Ian Wheeler makes the roster, his special teams value comes in the return game. Wheeler had three kickoff returns for touchdowns in his college career and is not much of a specialist in these other areas. 

So, the Bears will have to decide what they prioritize, and they may even have to decide if they want five running backs to stay. If Wheeler beats out Velus Jones, do they keep Jones, who has chased kicks and punts in his career before? It would give them the extra receiver, but he may not be as good in the role as Homer. 

This will not have all eyes on it during training camp, but fans should know that these players are competing for real roles on the roster.