Chicago Bears: 5 Under-the-radar players to watch in training camp
Chicago Bears under-the-radar player no. 4: Roschon Johnson, Running Back
Roschon Johnson might not be as under the radar as the others as he has already been drawing rave reviews.
Johnson has been in the shadows since he stepped on the field for the Texas Longhorns. He backed up star running back Bijan Robinson. Robinson became one of the best running back prospects in recent memory.
Johnson thrived in Robinson’s shadow. He had a very good career as the backup, rushing for 2,190 yards and scoring 23 touchdowns. He averaged 5.6 yards per rush. Additionally, he added 420 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns.
The Bears had the top rushing attack in 2022. It was the only area they excelled. With the departure of David Montgomery, however, many experts expect a dip in production. Add to that the team wanting quarterback Justin Fields to run less than the 160 times he did in 2022, and many don’t expect them to even be in the top ten in 2023.
Johnson could change that expectation. He is a physical runner who can break tackles with his strength and balance. Also, he has great hands. In his college career, he only had one fumble.
While Johnson may not start in Week 1 he could eventually win the job with his play. He and Fields could make a deadly duo. Fields uses his speed to run away from everyone and Johnson could wear the defense down.