REPORT: Chicago Bears Close To Contract Extension With Tarik Cohen

While Allen Robinson is the obvious focus of the Chicago Bears in terms of getting a contract extension done, it appears he isn't the only one. GM Ryan Pace is reportedly doing double duty on that front. According to Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Bears are also closing in on a new deal for running back Tarik Cohen. This might come as a surprise to a lot of people. The Bears have never extended a running back under Pace since he arrived in 2015. However, Cohen is clearly a different case. His versatility and value in the Matt Nagy offense is unquestioned. Not only is he a capable runner but also an effective receiver. Not to mention one of the most dangerous punt returners in the game. It's a move that makes sense for both sides. https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/1307357923933331463 [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://www.sportsmockery.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/From-@gmfb-Weekend-Cowboys-DE-Aldon-Smith-is-providing-inspiration-for-players-who-have-been-out-of000122.404-000136.037.mp4"][/video]

Tarik Cohen is the kind of weapon you keep around

A lot of people were upset with Cohen after last season. That's understandable. He averaged just 3.3 yards per carry and failed to crack 500 yards receiving despite making over 70 catches. His constant willingness to run out of bounds rather than try for extra yards was a persistent sore spot with fans. Something Cohen himself admitted was a problem. The good news is his first game of 2020 showed a lot of promise. Cohen ran seven times for 41 yards. A healthy 5.86 yards per carry. He didn't have any big plays in the passing game but that wasn't really his fault. There were a number of moments he was open but for one reason or another Mitch Trubisky didn't look his way. Those plays will come. Chicago is smart to retain him. He may be a running back by trade but Cohen is a true offensive weapon that can do a little bit of everything. Guys like that should be kept around.