The Chicago Bears took a tough hit to their offensive lineup last week when Tarik Cohen tore his ACL. Not only did they lose a versatile weapon, they also lost their best punt returner. There were concerns about the depth at running back even before the season began. Now with him out, those have only grown. Thankfully the team acted swiftly to find some help. Former Pro Bowler Lamar Miller is expected to join their practice squad.
Miller last played in 2018 for the Houston Texans. He suffered a torn ACL before the start of 2019, missing the entire season. The team chose to move on and the 29-year old has awaited his next opportunity since. Prior to the injury, Miller had managed to post five-straight seasons of at least 1,000 total yards from scrimmage.
He’s known for solid all-around versatility. A guy who can do everything well. He made the Pro Bowl that final season in Houston but may have had his best years in 2014 and 2015 with Miami. A team that happened to have Bill Lazor as their offensive coordinator, who now holds the same position in Chicago.
The #Bears are expected to sign veteran RB Lamar Miller to the practice squad, source said.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 2, 2020
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Once the deal is finalized, Lamar Miller will be reunited in Chicago with Charles London, who was his RBs coach in Houston, and Bill Lazor, who was his OC in Miami. A lot of familiarity as Miller — a 1,000-yard rusher in both places — joins the #Bears practice squad.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 2, 2020
Chicago Bears should be able to utilize Miller well
The big question with Miller is his health. How close to 100% is that knee? He’s had plenty of time to heal by now but he hasn’t had a chance to test it. Placing him on the practice squad makes sense for the Bears. It will give him some time to get acclimated with the team and mesh with the offense. Odds are he’ll end up on the main roster before too long.
Miller is on the older side for running backs but he’s always been known for having some speed. He had a 97-yard run against the Titans two years ago. The Bears have been seeking somebody with that kind of explosiveness who can complement David Montgomery. Perhaps they may have found it.
