As the Chicago Bears enter their bye week, it certainly feels like things are different. Take away wins and losses, and the culture and attitude within this organization are different, period. It's all thanks to Ben Johnson and the groundwork he has laid.
One alarming trend that continues to be a persistent issue, however, is the run game. D'Andre Swift simply has not been good enough, and that's putting it lightly. Fortunately, there could be some monumental help available at the trade deadline, and that's precisely what one expert believes the Bears should be focused on.
The Draft Network's Justin Melo mentions the Bears as his very first team atop the list of franchises who should be in on New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara.
Alvin Kamara is exactly what this Bears offense needs, but Ryan Poles should proceed with caution
"Johnson inherited starting running back D'Andre Swift from the previous regime. Swift hasn't been impressive, rushing for just 187 yards while averaging 3.3 yards per carry through four games. Johnson had David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs while he was the offensive coordinator in Detroit. Kamara would be an outstanding fit in his offense," wrote Melo.
The thought of Kamara in Ben Johnson's offense is an incredible one. His skill set would be exactly what this offense needs. Even though he's 30 years old, Kamara's ability to catch the football and be a force in multiple facets makes him incredibly valuable.
This wouldn't be a long-term fix for the Bears. Rather, Kamara would be a mere rental. For that reason, Poles should be cautious if they entertain this idea. Kamara's contract goes through 2026 and includes a cap hit of $18.6 million next year. That's a lot to pay for a running back over 30.
But, if the Bears could land Kamara for a Day 3 pick swap or something along those lines, that'd make it well worth the investment. This is still a player who has totaled over 1,200 yards of offense in every single year of his career. I'm thinking Chicago would take that in a heartbeat.
What makes this even more intriguing is the thought of Chicago pairing Kamara with a top rookie running back in next year's draft. Lightening Kamara's load as a 31-year-old will be pivotal. But, getting another dynamic runner in there next to him will make this offense even more fruitful.
The Bears could obviously do without the added running back contract, yes. However, I have a feeling that next year we'll see some other changes. Maybe they opt to part with Montez Sweat or DJ Moore and obtain some cap relief in addition to draft capital. We'll see.
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Regardless, Kamara is certainly worth a look for Poles.