The overarching goal of this offseason was to continue forging the type of offense Matt Nagy wanted. That is the biggest reason the Chicago Bears parted ways with Jordan Howard. They wanted a backfield that was more versatile in terms of its value in the passing game. That is why they signed Mike Davis and why they traded up to draft David Montgomery.
All signs point to the Bears having far more flexibility in the backfield than last year. Expectations are they’ll likely role with a committee approach where Nagy looks to feed Montgomery, Davis, and Tarik Cohen equally. The idea being to create matchups and keep defenses guessing as much as possible regarding where the ball will go.
Except there are some who hold a belief it’s not going to end up that way. They think one man will emerge from that group as the primary back who gets the bulk of the touches. I think we can all guess who it is.
Experts see David Montgomery seizing control of Bears backfield
Ironically the declaration came when several ESPN experts were asked a simple question. Who among the 2019 rookie class had great fantasy value between Round 2-7? The only name who got more than one vote? That was Montgomery. Both writers believe it’s only a matter of time before he forces coaches to leave him on the field.
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“Mike Clay, fantasy writer: David Montgomery, RB, Chicago Bears. Jordan Howard wasn’t dynamic enough to operate as a clear feature back in Matt Nagy’s offense, but Montgomery certainly is. The Iowa State product lacks top-end speed, but he’s big and super elusive, and he can help as a receiver. Expect him to quickly take on a bulk of Chicago’s carries while stealing targets from Tarik Cohen.
Dan Graziano, national NFL writer: David Montgomery, RB, Chicago Bears. I know Matt Nagy wants to change his offensive game plan week-to-week (maybe quarter-to-quarter) based on matchups. But if he has a three-down back who can handle the bulk of the carries and contribute in protection, I don’t doubt he’ll lean on him. Montgomery could be that guy.”
This may sound like it goes against the initial plans they had in mind. However, it shouldn’t be a surprise. Nagy did the exactly same thing back in 2017. The Kansas City Chiefs had operated with a backfield committee the year before with success. The initial idea when they drafted Kareem Hunt in the 3rd round was merely to expand upon that.
After Hunt delivered a star-making performance in the opening night win over New England, things changed. He took over the Chiefs backfield and eventually led the league in rushing. That’s not to say Montgomery will do the exact same thing, but it’s clear Nagy has little fear of creating a featured back for his offense if the talent is there.
