The Chicago Bears have maintained they want to be a running team that utilizes play action with Justin Fields. To make that work, you must keep a strong stable of running backs. While they have Khalil Herbert and D’Onta Foreman, it appears GM Ryan Poles wanted to add more depth and versatility. He succeeded with Roschon Johnson. Overlooked because he was teammates with Bijan Robinson, don’t be fooled. This guy can play. He’s big, powerful, athletic, and multifaceted. He’s great in short yardage, a quality pass protector, and should also be a big contributor on special teams.
This pick furthers a trend for the Bears, who have targeted mostly players they worked with at the Senior Bowl. The only one who didn’t was Gervon Dexter. Johnson had a solid week down in Mobile and seems to have made a positive impression. He certainly fits Poles’ profile of size and athleticism. It would not be a surprise if he blossomed into a genuine starter within the first three years. He has all the tools necessary. The best part is he’s got the character to be unselfish and a leader. Teammates loved him at Texas.
Roschon Johnson likely would’ve gone far earlier.
If he didn’t play behind literally the best running back prospect seen in years, there is no question he would’ve been long gone. He has 2nd round talent. Poles deserves credit for recognizing that other teams would overlook him because he wasn’t the “starter” at Texas. He focused on the talent and the tape. Both are excellent. Best of all, he has low mileage on his body since Robinson took the majority of the carries. The Bears are getting a guy healthy and hungry.
It will be interesting to see how much of an opportunity Roschon Johnson gets. Herbert and Johnson are proven runners, but the rookie is arguably a more complete player.
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