The rumors finally became reality this offseason. After over a year of speculation, the Chicago Bears executed the long-anticipated trading of running back Jordan Howard. He will be sent to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 6th round conditional pick in the 2020 draft. A pick that could become a 5th rounder if certain unknown parameters are met.
A lot of people may be upset about what the Bears got in return. That’s understandable given what Howard has done for the franchise the past three years. Yet the NFL is a results-based business. Howard’s production has steadily declined since arriving in the league back in 2016 with last year being the worst of his career.
Combine that with his limited skill set in the passing game and expiring contract, the Bears were probably never going to get a great pick for him. Besides, they never were going to pay him long-term money to stay. So to get anything should be considered a minor victory.
Roster Move: #Eagles have acquired RB Jordan Howard from the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2020 draft pick.#FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/xFJd0WPEOy
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 29, 2019
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Besides, there’s a reason for optimism. This trade, along with the projected two compensatory picks from losing Adrian Amos and Bryce Callahan could give the Bears a total of 10 selections in the 2020 draft. That is a strong assortment of currency with which Ryan Pace can stock up the roster with more young talent.
Don’t forget he found Howard and Amos in the 5th round. Callahan was an undrafted free agent. The GM knows what he’s doing. It’s just sad to see such a likeable player who battled his ass off for the organization not get rewarded by them. Still, he will do great in Philadelphia.
