The Chicago Bears are now loaded with weapons on the offensive side of the ball, which is certainly great news for quarterback Caleb Williams heading into his sophomore campaign. But the Bears are lacking in one area: running back.
Yes, Chicago is teeming with talent at wide receiver. D.J. Moore is already an established star, Rome Odunze is a budding stud and rookie Luther Burden III has generally been viewed as a major NFL Draft steal. But the Bears’ backfield definitely has some question marks.
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It’s not that Chicago has no answers at halfback, but there is no doubt that D’Andre Swift was a big disappointment in the first year of his three-year, $24 million contract. Roschon Johnson is an okay backup (who is currently dealing with a foot injury) and rookie Kyle Monangai is definitely compelling, but the Bears could use another reliable body.
That’s why Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton has linked Chicago to Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson, who is apparently on the trade block.
General manager Ryan Poles of the Chicago Bears looks on prior to a game against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on November 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.
General manager Ryan Poles of the Chicago Bears looks on prior to a game against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on November 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.
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“Johnson is out of action because of a foot injury. Even if it’s a minor issue, the Bears may not be comfortable with their No. 2 running back,” Moton wrote. “General manager Ryan Poles praised rookie seventh-rounder Kyle Monangai, but that doesn’t mean the first-year tailback is ready for a big role this year. Also, remember that Swift dealt with injuries early in his career. Robinson can add insurance and fill gaps in the Bears’ backfield rotation.”
Moton specifically proposes a trade package in which Chicago would send offensive lineman Ryan Bates and a fourth-round draft pick to the Commanders in exchange for Robinson, who is entering the final year of his contract.
Robinson has been a bit underwhelming in Washington since being selected in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Last year, he ran for 799 yards and eight touchdowns on 4.3 yards per carry, his most productive campaign on the ground to date. He also has shown pass-catching skills in the past, like in 2023 when he hauled in 36 receptions for 368 yards and four scores.
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The key here is that the Bears would not be expecting Robinson to be their featured back. He would merely serve as a reliable complement to Swift and give Chicago another backfield option, which would absolutely be helpful.
Robinson is also still just 26 years old, so it’s entirely possible that he has not reached his ceiling just yet. Perhaps he can realize his potential in the Windy City.
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