Let's stop for a second and consider this. What if the Chicago Bears are serious about their Mitch Trubisky statement? That he is their guy in 2020. While plenty of people will criticize that decision for obvious reasons, it at least makes matters less complicated. It means GM Ryan Pace will devote every resource in his arsenal to beefing up the offense in an effort to help his young quarterback finally take off. This includes new wide receivers, new tight ends, and a bolstered offensive line. Could running back be included? Sure, especially if Melvin Gordon is involved.
David Montgomery is a good football player. He should remain a key fixture in the Bears backfield. However, he showed last year there are clear limitations to his game. Most notably a lack of explosiveness. Gordon showed both in college and his last five years with the Los Angeles Chargers that he has considerably more. Not to mention his value in the passing game with 1,873 yards and 11 touchdowns during that span.
He's only 26-years old. By all accounts the running back market this offseason is going to be among the coldest in free agency. This means even the biggest names aren't likely to get the kind of money they're hoping for. This could work to the Bears' advantage since they have limited cap space. Is a run at Gordon financially feasible?
Melvin Gordon can be had if Bears go cheap at QB
One thing to remember here is the Bears had the 27th ranked rushing attack in 2019. If people were looking for a reason why the offense couldn't function, it's because this team had no way to take the pressure off Trubisky. If they're truly committed to be being the guy this coming season, then they absolutely have to invest in their ground attack. That means boosting the offensive line and loading up the backfield.
So what might Gordon cost?
According to Spotrac, his current market value stands at around $8.3 million per year. That would make him the 5th-highest-paid running back in the league. However, there is a belief in NFL circles that teams won't be interested in shelling out that kind of cash. Not after guys like David Johnson and Todd Gurley quickly fizzled out after getting their big contracts. Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network explained.
"Sources here tell me that the running backs slated to be free agents in a few weeks will not be getting paid huge contracts. According to many, this means it will be much easier for the Tennessee Titans to re-sign Derrick Henry, who’s scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent once the market opens.
Teams feel they can get by selecting a running back during the second and even third day of the draft versus shelling out big bucks for a free agent at the position."
This means Gordon may have to settle for less money.
Chicago always loves to seek out potential bargains Getting a two-time Pro Bowl running back in his prime for perhaps $5-7 million per year would be a steal. Especially if they can somehow improve the blocking up front. A trio of Gordon, Montgomery, and Tarik Cohen would make for an exciting backfield that can be good for a lot of touchdowns.
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