While attention is usually on the Chicago Bears' offense and defense in 2026, something special is brewing in the special teams unit, led by running back Roschon Johnson.
Before the season, Johnson was put on notice for his poor play and the injuries he suffered during the 2025 season, as he got only two carries all year. No one saw him making an impact on the team, or even making the team.
Through the first three plays, Johnson has taken only one offensive snap but has played on special teams snaps in 61% of plays. Johnson has been doing pretty well in that role, which no one could have suspected.
Roschon Johnson might actually be incredible on special teams for the Bears
It's not uncommon for Johnson to help out on special teams, as he has done in the past. The surprise has been how much of an impact he has made as a gunner so far.
There are some conflicting stats on Johnson's tackles, just for full transparency, but here's what he's done so far. According to ESPN, Johnson has made eight tackles (four solo and four assisted), but Pro Football Reference lists four tackles, all assisted.
Regardless of what the final stats say, Johnson is off to a fast start on special teams and has a chance to have a career season on special teams. He has found a way where he can make an impact on the team even though he is not playing as much on offense.
This shouldn't take away from what he is as an offensive player, which is a downhill runner who is not afraid of contact. He may not collect the big yards per run, but he is going to get those tough three to four yards per carry when they are needed.
That toughness he shows on offense is being translated to special teams in ways no one saw coming. He seems to be embracing his role on special teams and doing everything he can to help on the team.
In a time when the Bears' special teams have been hurt by multiple players, Johnson's emergence is a good thing. Already this season, Chicago has struggled on special teams because rookie tight end Sam Roush struggled with blocking, and rookie long snapper Beau Gardner struggled with the kicking operation.
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At least when Johnson is running down the field on kickoff or punt coverage, Bears fans know that he is about to lay a big hit out for the team.
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