The Chicago Bears are set to have one of their busiest off-seasons in recent memory when the new league year begins this week. Fixing the quarterback position and the offense will be one of the team’s main priorities. They are still limited by the salary cap and have eight draft picks in this year’s draft. Chicago may be in a situation where they might have to trade one of their better players, who may be too costly down the road.
Running back Tarik Cohen has been one of the most explosive offensive weapons the Bears have had in the last few seasons. Cohen has shown that he can make the big-play in both the running game and passing game. He has also shown versatility as he has returned both kickoff and punt returns. Due to his quick speed and small frame, Cohen has been one of the hardest players to bring down along with one of the most exciting players to watch.
The issue with Cohen is that he is entering the final year of his rookie deal. If the Bears decide to extend him, they still would have to decide on paying him long term. Cohen, due to his big-play ability, will garner a decent payday if he hits free agency. Given the team’s quarterback needs and multiple contract extensions for defensive starters, Chicago may not have the money to re-sign Cohen.
The 2019 season was a terrible one for the Bears offense across the board, but Cohen struggled also. Outside of his 79 receptions, the rest of his stats were substantially lower than in prior seasons. Chicago’s running back saw his rushing yards per game, yards per receptions, and reception yards per game be nearly half of what he produced in 2018.
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Cohen failed to have one rushing attempt of 20 yards or longer in 2019 and a reception longer than 35 yards. Last season, one of his biggest flaws was his decision making in the open field, as far too often he tried to run laterally costing him more yards. Cohen’s questionable decision making lost the Bears offense first downs on several occasions.
Although Cohen’s dual-threat ability is vital to Chicago’s offense, the team does have options in replacing him. Second-year running back David Montgomery has a similar skill-set to the fourth-year back but lacks the explosive speed. If the team goes the free agency route, players like Dion Lewis, Chris Thompson, and Kareem Hunt are all dual-threat backs that could replace Cohen if the Bears trade him.
Chicago could trade their explosive running back for a late-round draft selection in this year’s draft. Although Cohen isn’t a three-down back, he would be a great commodity for a playoff team’s offense. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, and Houston Texans all utilize pass-catching running backs in their offensive systems.
If Chicago wishes to remain in playoff contention given their cap limitations, the team must improve through the draft. General manager Ryan Pace needs to acquire as many picks as he can to help improve his roster. That means even exploring the idea of trading his special teams Pro-Bowl running back in Cohen. It’s best Chicago get something for him now than get nothing and lose him in free agency in a few seasons.
