When fans and analysts think about the current Chicago Bears running back room, their first thought immediate goes to D’Andre Swift. But he isn’t the only runner looking to prove he belongs in Ben Johnson’s new-look offense.
Roschon Johnson is entering his third year in Chicago and is coming off a season in which he tied Swift for the team lead in rushing touchdowns in six. However, he has yet to receive over 100 carries in a single season and has served primarily in a backup role.
With Johnson – the head coach, coming to town though, Johnson – the running back – has a fresh opportunity to earn his spot in the running back room. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated expects the Bears to take a long look at what they have in the running back.
“I think he gives Roschon Johnson a shot to win a legit role in the offense,” Breer said. “I’m intrigued to see how that looks. Johnson was stuck behind Bijan Robinson at Texas, and has struggled to find footing over his first two years as a pro, but he’s got ability and, now a clean slate. He also complements D’Andre Swift nicely.”
How Roschon Johnson fits into offense
As it stands, Swift is still likely to enter the season in a lead role. However, Johnson was relegated to strictly goal line duties in 2024. The running back has already received a glowing endorsement from general manager Ryan Poles. As Chicago’s new head coach plans the team’s new offense, it truly seems like Johnson will get a fair chance to contribute beyond just the goal line.
During his rookie season, Johnson received 81 carries, turning it into 352 yards and two touchdowns. While his scoring opportunities didn’t come up as often, Johnson did average 4.3 yards per carry. After watching Swift average just 3.8 YPC during his Chicago debut, the Bears are certainly looking for more consistency from their running backs.
The 2025 season will be crucial for everyone involved with the Bears. But in terms of the offense, Johnson has one of the hottest seats. Entering his third season, now is the time to prove he can be a pivotal part of the run game. If he continues to struggle, he may be limited to just the goal line for the remainder of his Chicago tenure.
But Poles and Johnson are hoping that doesn’t come to fruition. While the state of the Bears’ running back room has been a point of contention all offseason, perhaps Chicago didn’t make many aggressive moves due to their belief in Johnson and Swift.
Reasons for Chicago Bears rushing attack optimism
While Swift will take the brunt of the blame for his rocky first year with the Bears, his offensive line did him no favors. With Chicago bringing in three new interior offensive line, it should be easier for any Bears running back to find the hole.
Furthermore, the run game was crucial for Ben Johnson during his time with the Detroit Lions. While the Bears won’t be a carbon copy on offense, the head coach won’t completely throw out what made his offense so strong. In 2024, he saw both Jahmyr Gibbs (16) and David Montgomery (12) score double digit touchdowns. Gibbs ran for 1,412 yards while Montgomery had 775.
If Roschon Johnson were to fill the Montgomery role, it would be a major upgrade from his responsibilities given thus far. Both Lions running backs received over 180 carries. If Chicago’s head coach is planning the same for Swift and Johnson, it seems almost inevitable their numbers will go up.
But ultimately, it’ll be up to the Bears’ current state of running backs to prove the franchise right. If Swift and Johnson struggle out the gate, fans will immediately be clamoring for an outside addition again.
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