After multiple rounds of focusing on great athletes with their draft picks, it appears the Chicago Bears opted to go with a throwback for the finale. In the 7th round with their final selection, GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson got the running back they were missing. His name is Kyle Monangai. At first glance, the kid isn’t much to look at. He’s only 5’8 and 211 lbs with no breakaway speed. However, focusing on that would be a mistake. He is agile with tremendous cutting ability, contact balance, and a feel for finding holes where there aren’t any. Throw in his outstanding leadership traits, and you understand the Bears’ interest.
If you don’t trust the tape, then trust the production. In the previous two seasons, he had 2541 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. Keep in mind, he wasn’t doing this against cupcake competition. Some of his best games in college were against Miami, Ohio State, Michigan State, and Washington. Actual good programs. That is always a good sign when somebody can play at the next level. He should compete for the power role in Johnson’s offense, complementing D’Andre Swift’s speed.
All things considered, the Bears should be happy with the outcome.
@Dr Sallie, I don’t think Ben wanted this guy “more”than other backs, I think he didn’t want the other backs more than what he ended up picking. I think the draft took a turn after NE took Henderson. After that, he had to feel that the rest of the available backs were clumped together and he would decide if picking a RB just to pick one was worth it. I don’t think taking anyone’s grade of this draft is meaningful in any way. The proof will be in the bread pudding as they probably say in England. We’ll find out… Read more »
Sally why do you pick one thing to complain about and beat it to death? You have posted about your perception that Poles was “protecting” Swift in at least 4 different articles comments. Do you think nobody will get your point if you only post it once?
You really think my HC Ben wanted this guy over others the Bears passed on Day 3? If so, you need to get whacked.
Monangai at 233? He’s slow with just 4.6 speed. And production in college does NOT project to the pros.
RB room needs depth. Let’s add UDFA RB Antario Brown NIU, 230 lbs with 4.39 speed? He had a big game against Notre Dame in their only regular season loss. Give him a shot!
If you followed the draft closely in day 3, the Bears had plenty of chances to secure a very good RB. Poles wanted to keep his RB Swift via the trade downs and some highly questionable picks. Dolts.