Tarik Cohen Isn't Messing Around Anymore Based On Latest Buzz

When talking about the biggest disappointments of 2019 for the Chicago Bears, most people always start with Mitch Trubisky. That just comes with being the quarterback. However, not too far behind him was probably Tarik Cohen. In 2018 he was a mismatch, averaging 4.5 yards per carry and making 71 catches for 725 yards with eight total touchdowns. Last year he dropped to 3.3 yards per carry with 79 catches for just 456 yards.

The drop in efficiency and explosiveness was beyond frustrating for fans. A persistent feature all year was how passive Cohen became. Too often he settled for running out of bounds rather than try using his game-breaking skill to go for extra yards. The running back even admitted on Twitter after watching the film that it was a major problem.

One he vowed to correct going into 2020.

He certainly has the incentive to do so. Cohen will be a free agent in 2021. So this year is one he absolutely must excel in if he wants that strong payday next spring. According to Matt Nagy, the 25-year old has exceeded expectations thus far.

“He’s really dedicated right now and trying to be coachable. That’s what I think is really neat with where he’s at with Tarik. There were some things we saw last year that we thought he could do better. He’s hit that full steam ahead and there’s been some changes in whether it’s his angle in the run game or whether it’s a specific route we’re trying to teach him. So I’m really happy for the way he’s handled that.”

Getting back 2018 Tarik Cohen would be huge

People tend to forget how much of a playmaker Cohen can actually be. His versatility mixed with speed and quickness gives defenses headaches. He was his own worst enemy last season. When he is playing with confidence and swagger, the guy is a big play machine. If the Bears can get that version of him back this year, then the offense could be even more explosive than hoped.

Already there is a belief the tight end position could end up being a major strength this year. There's also the arrival of new speed threats like Ted Ginn Jr. and Darnell Mooney. Combine that with a revitalized Cohen and it's a formula for success. Better performances will be needed at quarterback, of course. Still, it seems what happened last season got his attention.