A Chicago Bears Rookie Preseason Performance That's Not Getting Enough Attention

The Chicago Bears 2023 rookie draft class had an impressive showing against the Titans on Saturday. However, a performance flying under the radar is rookie running back Roschon Johnson. The former Texas standout delivered a strong outing despite running behind the Bears third-string offensive line. Johnson carried the ball 12 times, gaining a total of 44 yards. He forced three missed tackles and managed to gain 47 yards after contact. It might seem unusual that his yards after contact exceeded his total yards, but this was due to him getting tackled in the backfield a few times during the second half. Additionally, he earned a 80.0 PFF grade. Very solid for the rookie.

In the second preseason game, I'm hoping to watch him play alongside the first string offensive line. Kahlil Herbert has already got his touches in. We're well aware of his talent, and he's undoubtedly the top running back on the roster. However, I'm intrigued by Roschon Johnson's potential to possibly secure the second running back spot. On the Bears' 2023 depth chart, he's officially listed as the third running back. Currently, he's behind experienced veteran D'Onta Foreman, who had a highly productive season in 2022. It'll be interesting to monitor if any changes in the depth chart before week 1 arrives. If anyone has a chance to move up, it's Johnson. Big shoutout to Travis Homer and Trestan Ebnber, though. It's just a deep room that signifies Ryan Poles is good at his job.