When tracking the Chicago Bears’ private visits ahead of the NFL draft, the most common positions are hardly surprising. It’s a split between offensive linemen, defensive linemen, and a sprinkle of wide receivers and defensive backs. All four of those areas are weak or thin in depth for this team. It would make sense for GM Ryan Poles to focus on them heavily. However, there was one interesting note. Of the several names listed among the private visits, only one of them plays the running back position.
That is Zach Charbonnet of UCLA. Seeing this makes one curious as to why the Bears are so interested. Running back isn’t the most pressing need but they don’t have a run-first offense under Luke Getsy. It makes sense they’d want to keep the position stacked. That is what they did in Green Bay during his time there. Interestingly enough, the pro comparison for Charbonnet is A.J. Dillon, the Packers’ former 2nd round pick. The mix of power, underrated speed, patience, and vision make for a strong combination.
It also doesn’t hurt he’s solid in pass protection too.
The Chicago Bears’ interest in Charbonnet is justified.
Remember, Khalil Herbert is the only noteworthy running back on the roster under contract beyond 2023. D’Onta Foreman signed a one-year deal with the team in free agency. He has a questionable health track record despite his standout 2022 performance in Carolina. Adding another quality back to the mix isn’t a bad idea. They have ten picks in this draft and can afford it. What it comes down to is where Charbonnet goes. Current projections have him somewhere in the 2nd or 3rd round range. That feels too rich for the Bears given their other needs.
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However, were he to slip into the 4th round, that might convince Poles it’s more than worth the investment. Charbonnet would give them a strong runner that fits their system and also improves their overall versatility. There is no harm in giving Justin Fields more help. Dillon has been a solid producer for Green Bay. If Charbonnet is the same, then the Chicago Bears will benefit.
