The Chicago Bears overhauled their running back group this offseason following the departure of David Montgomery. They brought in veterans D’Onta Foreman and Travis Homer in free agency and drafted rookie Roschon Johnson in the fourth round.
The competition for lead back has been well-documented, and it sounds like it’s Herbert’s job to lose heading into the regular season. But heading into roster cuts next week, it sounds like one prominent name might be on the chopping block.
According to The Athletic‘s Adam Jahns, Foreman could be a surprise cut next Tuesday. A big reason for that is the emergence of Johnson, who’s been gaining traction following a solid preseason. Johnson has impressed with his rushing ability and versatility in the passing game and pass protection. And that could be a detriment to Foreman, who’s skillset isn’t as diverse.
Johnson’s playing time with the starters has increased every week since camp opened, but Khalil Herbert remains the projected starter.
It wouldn’t be surprising, though, if Johnson played more than D’Onta Foreman in the early going. Foreman could be a surprise cut.
At the very least, it sounds like Johnson could be the second back behind Herbert when the regular season begins. That would put Foreman third on the depth chart, if they opt to keep him on the roster.
“I feel like no matter whatever role I’m in, I’m going to excel at it,” Foreman said. “… I just don’t think (observers) have seen enough of what really I can do.”
The running back room will be an interesting one to monitor during roster cuts on Tuesday. It sounds like Foreman could be the odd man out if Chicago opts to keep Herbert, Johnson and Homer, a special teams contributor who brings pass-catching versatility.
