The Chicago Bears drafted David Montgomery because they believe he brings something to the offense they didn't have last year. Most would refer to his ability to catch the football as a receiver out of the backfield. However, coaches and teammates have been quick to point out another facet of his game. His remarkable quickness and cutting ability.
People assume that because Montgomery doesn't have blazing speed this means he can be a great running back. This, of course, is false. Some of the greatest backs in history weren't known for speed. They had something else vital to the job. They had balance and footwork. Being able to run fast is great, but defenses tend to take measures to limit such opportunities.
One thing that is impossible to defend though is a back's ability to avoid tackles and suddenly change direction. It's what made Barry Sanders and Marshall Faulk Hall of Famers. Montgomery has a long way to go before he enters that conversation, but a recent video reveals that people weren't lying about his rapid feet.
David Montgomery showcased this talent for years at Iowa State
The thing about Montgomery is he knows he's not fast. So his job is not to sit around and complain about it. It's to find ways to maximize his other traits. His vision and cutting prowess being two big ones. There were several times at Iowa State where he juked defenders who had him dead to rights. He even developed a bit of a stutter-step made famous by Walter Payton.
There are even whispers out of Bears practices that he's already done it to the defense once or twice. Events that drew considerable reactions from teammates and coaches. Tarik Cohen openly stated that his cuts are "vicious." Keep in mind this is a man almost 220 lbs. Not some undersized scat back weighing 180 lbs. He's carrying NFL weight and is still doing that to people.
That should be the scariest part of all this.
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