As the picture of Luke Getsy’s offense comes together, it’s become clear that the Bears value players on offense that can play multiple roles. Chase Claypool and DJ Moore can play outside at the X-receiver spot or inside at the slot. Darnell Mooney can play at the Z receiver position or inside at the slot as well. All of the veteran running backs are multiple, but it’s one new addition to that room that has caught my and many other fans’ and analysts’ attention.
Roschon Johnson has seemed to come out of nowhere, but everyone who knows him or watched him at Texas has nothing but good things to say about his versatility on the field and his personality off of it. Johnson can do it all, and many believe had he not been at Texas, where a guy named Bijan Robinson, who was taken 8th overall in this year’s draft, was running the ball, he would’ve been a sure starter. His stats in college aren’t eye-popping, but that’s why you can’t box score, scout. His big and athletic, he runs hard, he’s already an excellent pass blocker, and he plays on multiple phases of special teams. Robinson even called him “the best teammate he’s ever had.”
Mark my words, Johnson will see significant playing time as a rookie, and it won’t be because of his draft position. Khalil Herbert struggled in pass protection last season, and you can’t have an offense led by one of the better deep passers in the game lacking help in that area. If for nothing other than his blitz pickup capabilities, Johnson will be on the field. This likely spells trouble for Trestan Ebner, as the Bears will probably only keep four running backs on their roster. After signing special teams stud Travis Homer earlier this off-season, Ebner may be the odd man out.
Outside of Darnell Wright, Johnson has a chance to help transform the offense this season. Especially if there’s untapped potential due to the lack of snaps on his legs, he might have a chance to elevate not only the offense but his position in the running back room. I’d say yes; the hype is coming for a good reason. You typically don’t hear these many coaches rave about a guy this early that doesn’t work out.
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