The Chicago Bears feel good about where their 2023 draft class is going into the season. Darnell Wright is cemented as the starting right tackle. Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens look like quality rotational options at defensive tackle. Tyrique Stevenson had a great preseason, earning the starting corner job opposite Jaylon Johnson. Yet none were referenced when discussing potential sleepers for the upcoming season. Matt Bowen, a former defensive back and current ESPN analyst, has somebody else in mind.
When discussing a fantasy sleeper to watch for this season, he singled out 4th round pick Roschon Johnson. If that weren’t a bold enough prediction, Bowen quietly slipped another into his explanation.
“RB Roschon Johnson. The Bears’ running back room is crowded, but Johnson has the powerful north/south running traits to emerge this season as an early-down back who has pass-catching ability out of the backfield. In his final season at Texas, Johnson averaged 3.96 yards per carry after first contact. He’s a late-draft add as a bench stash.”
Without saying the exact words, it sounds like Bowen expects Johnson to pry the starting job away from Khalil Herbert at some point this season. Thanks to his success last year, Herbert holds the job, but Johnson has way more versatility as both a receiver and pass-blocker.
Roschon Johnson showcased all of his skills in the preseason.
He ran for 98 yards on 28 carries and caught five passes for 24 yards. His ability to fight through contact was evident every time he touched the ball. He and Tyson Bagent made for a great combo against Indianapolis and Buffalo. It’s hard not to wonder how much better the rookie could be with the starting offensive line blocking for him instead of a mishmash of backups. Much of what happens next depends on several variables. The most obvious is how well Herbert plays to start the season. If he continues running well and shows improvement in his receiving, the Bears will likely stick with him.
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However, if he struggles or gets hurt, that will open the door for Roschon Johnson to get more involved. The Bears already sound eager to get him opportunities. Special teams coach Richard Hightower already loves him. This feels like a player that will get on the field sooner or later. It’s only a matter of time. The chip on his shoulder is obvious. He’s anxious to prove that his backup status at Texas was a mirage. He can play against the best on any day of the week. Bowen seems to agree.
