Following last weekend’s draft, many assumed the Bears would pursue a veteran running back, with ongoing rumors linking them to Nick Chubb. However, general manager Ryan Poles appeared to dismiss those rumors during an interview on ESPN 1000, instead expressing confidence in the team’s current group of running backs.
The Bears’ backfield currently includes D’Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, Travis Homer, Ian Wheeler, and rookie Kevin Monangai. Homer is expected to primarily contribute on special teams, narrowing the offensive focus to Swift, Johnson, Wheeler, and Monangai.
Swift is likely to be the lead back, but Johnson appears to be the internal candidate to take on the David Montgomery-style role, especially with a bolstered offensive line that Poles said could benefit Johnson significantly. Wheeler remains a bit of an unknown after missing his rookie season with a torn ACL.
Monangai, however, might be the biggest surprise. His performance has caught attention, with NFL Network’s Adam Rank suggesting that his arrival could make the pursuit of a veteran like Chubb unnecessary. This unexpected impact could reshape the Bears’ plans moving forward.
