Are the Chicago Bears seeing Tarik Cohen as a little more than what he actually is? Sure, he’s an undeniable weapon on offense but that is because he isn’t asked to be an every-down contributor at his position. So what happens if that changes this year? This is a question posed to the Bears by Gil Brandt of NFL.com.
The Hall of Fame executive spent several decades in the NFL, building multiple championship teams with the Dallas Cowboys. So he knows what he’s talking about when addressing strengths and weaknesses of a roster. Upon evaluating the Bears, he came away with concerns regarding their depth at running back.
While he likes David Montgomery, he’s not convinced Cohen is capable in any way of filling that void were the second-year back to go down with an injury. This is only magnified by who the Bears have behind him.
“Like the Eagles, the Bears will be taking a huge risk if a veteran isn’t added to the RB depth chart behind lead ball carrier David Montgomery. Tarik Cohen had 64 carries last season, but he doesn’t have the size to fill the role of every-down back. The only other options on the roster currently include Ryan Nall, who recorded 8 yards on two carries after being promoted from the practice squad, and undrafted rookies Artavis Pierce and Napoleon Maxwell.”
Tarik Cohen is great in space but can’t create for himself
Last season proved Brandt’s point in a way. It would be one thing if Cohen got 64 carries but still produced well on the ground. This was not the case though. He averaged just 3.3 yards per carry for the season. By far his career-worst. It was a major indication of how limited he is when the offensive line isn’t blocking well. However dangerous Cohen is out in space, he’s not going to force his way out of congested lanes too often.
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Typically a good #2 running back should be a guy who can handle 15 carries per game at least and be serviceable. Cohen has never reached that bar once in his NFL career since 2017. This is why a lot of people continue calling on the Bears to sign a veteran of some kind. Somebody who can handle that #2 job, allowing Cohen to be that scat back threat who creates mismatches on 3rd down.
Names like Devonta Freeman, Lamar Miller, Jonathan Williams, and LeSean McCoy remain available. All could fit that role pretty well. Perhaps more names will become available as rosters start getting trimmed down in August.