One topic Chicago Bears fans have found plenty of time to talk about lately is Tarik Cohen. It’s rather amazing how many people are anxious to see the two-time Pro Bowler gone at this point. Why? Well, most of it probably has to do with his disappointing 2019 season. He ran for just 213 yards on the ground with no touchdowns, averaging 3.3 per carry. Even through the air he was less effective, posting just 456 yards despite catching 79 passes.
His trademark ability to cut back, elude tacklers and get extra yards just wasn’t there. People joked there were magnets drawing him to the sideline every time he caught the ball in even remote vicinity of it. They’re also tired of his improvisational nature on special teams which has led to a lot of unnecessary mistakes that his big returns used to make worth it but no longer do.
This has led to frequent shouts for the Bears to trade him. That hasn’t happened. However, this is his last year for his rookie contract. So it’s possible he could be gone by next offseason. Do the Bears have anybody capable of replacing what he’s done on offense. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report believes so.
“The Chicago Bears have a budding star in second-year running back David Montgomery. They also have a premier receiving and change-of-pace back in Tarik Cohen.
However, Bears fans should be jazzed about the addition of former Oregon State back Artavis Pierce, who is both an explosive runner and a capable receiver.
Last year, Pierce tallied 873 yards and six touchdowns on 146 carries and caught 23 passes for 169 yards and another score. In four seasons with the Beavers, he caught 74 passes for 578 yards.
As a receiving back, Pierce could eventually replace Cohen, who is entering the final year of his contract.”
Artavis Pierce is not Tarik Cohen but does have upside
Let’s get one thing straight. Pierce is not the type of athlete Cohen is. It wouldn’t be fair to make the comparison. Cohen is a unique player with the kind of quickness and agility that doesn’t come around often. Pierce has some quickness and speed along with good vision and underrated strength. He is a solid football player who never really got a chance to be “the guy” at Oregon State.
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So in truth he might actually be perfect for the role of the #2 guy behind David Montgomery. Something who bring that something different to the table. Of course he has a long way to go before reaching even that mountain top. Cohen is still here and Ryan Nall isn’t likely to surrender his spot as the #3 guy easily. This will be something to watch this summer.
