The Ashton Jeanty Bears Plan Just Got Holes Punched In It

One of the hottest debates among Chicago Bears fans is whether the team should consider drafting a running back in the 1st round. This organization hasn't done that since Cedric Benson in 2005. Before that, it was Curtis Enis in 1998 and Rashaan Salaam in 1995. Three consecutive misfires understandably pushed the Bears away from going that route. However, this year feels different. It is a loaded class this year with lots of high-caliber talent at the top. Boise State star Ashton Jeanty leads the way. Head coach Ben Johnson wants to run the ball. Chicago was 25th in rushing last year. It all lines up.

The obvious question is whether GM Ryan Poles is willing to go that route. He has shown over the past three years that he doesn't value the running back position compared to others. He's settled for a mix of veteran free agents and late-round draft picks to handle the workload. Could Johnson change his mind? Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune was asked about it in his recent mailbag. His response was interesting. While Jeanty is always possible, it feels like the Bears are more than content waiting until the 2nd or 3rd round to address the position.

I can’t imagine the Bears are nervous about all of the top running backs possibly being gone by the time their second pick comes around at No. 39. I’d imagine they’re excited and energized by the possibilities in this draft. There will be really good backs available in Round 3. It’s about identifying the players who fit specifically what they’re looking for and then stacking the draft board.

Ashton Jeanty is good but handicapped by a great class.

This 2025 group of prospects is considered one of the best seen in years. There is not only star power with Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton of North Carolina, but there is also tons of depth with guys like Kaleb Johnson of Iowa and Cam Skattebo of Arizona State, who are expected to go later on Day 2 but still be excellent contributors. If the Bears believe they can land them with one of their three picks in the 2nd and 3rd rounds, then why take Jeanty? They would have to think his talent level is head and shoulders above everybody else. By most accounts, that is not the case. Poles and Johnson can easily convince themselves to focus on another position of need, knowing they can circle back to running back with reasonable odds of getting a good one.