In case people haven't already picked up on the obvious hints by this point, the Chicago Bears are in the market for running back help. While Ben Johnson has great respect for D'Andre Swift, it is apparent he doesn't see the 26-year-old as a full-time workhorse type of back. The Bears need somebody who can complement him. After seeing the success David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs had in Detroit, it is a safe assumption Johnson will want a Montgomery-type who can churn out the tough yards and wear defenses down.
Thankfully, there is no shortage of options in the upcoming 2025 draft. Many believe running back is the strength of the group. Chicago should be able to land someone of high quality in the 2nd and even 3rd rounds. Ohio State stars Quinshon Judkins and TreyVeon Henderson seem like obvious choices. The same goes for North Carolina bruiser Omario Hampton. However, draft insider Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus told the CHGO Bears podcast that another name will likely garner Johnson's attention.
Skattebo fits the three criteria Ben Johnson wants.
The Bears head coach listed three traits he seeks in players. They must be physical, play with good fundamentals, and deliver their best performances in big games. Skattebo was the beating heart of Arizona State's run to the college football playoffs last year. He had over 1700 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. That includes an absurd 143 yards rushing, 99 receiving, and two touchdowns in the heartbreaking postseason loss to Texas. He's smart, playing the position in all its facets, and nobody dare question his physicality. Few are better at breaking tackles.
The Bears have three picks on day two of the draft: two in the 2nd and one in the 3rd. There is a reasonable shot that Skattebo will be available at two of them, if not three. Ben Johnson has good reasons to push Ryan Poles to make it happen. He would become an instant fan favorite.
