Roschon Johnson Concern Levels Rise As Bears Add New RB

Roschon Johnson was having himself a strong training camp through the first two weeks. Multiple reports said he looked fit, quick, and played with the trademark power he was known for. However, things took a turn over the past few days. It was revealed that Johnson had suffered a foot injury, keeping him out of the two most recent practices. Not much was made of it at first. Players sometimes take a few days to get past ailments during a long camp. However, concern levels went up a notch on Saturday.

News broke that the Bears were signing veteran running back Brittain Brown. He spent five years in college at Duke and UCLA, carving out a productive career. It was enough to get him drafted in the 7th round by the Las Vegas Raiders. After two seasons, he left and spent most of last season on the Seattle Seahawks' practice squad. It is difficult to understand what this move means. Adding a running back at all suggests Johnson might be out for a while. Still, Brittain's lack of experience (he has zero carries in the NFL) suggests the Bears only view him as a camp body.

Roschon Johnson doesn't seem the type to miss much time.

He's known for being tough and doesn't have much of an injury history. That said, until he's ready, the Bears have to spread his reps around. Kyle Monangai will likely work with the second team offense behind D'Andre Swift. That means Brown and Travis Homer will handle third-string duties. It isn't hard to see the appeal. He built a reputation in college as a violent runner who could break tackles. Brown also has solid vision to find the holes. The issue was always a lack of speed and minimal creativity. Even so, Ben Johnson's offense demands physical running backs. Brown fits that. His lack of wear-and-tear probably played a part in his signing.