If the Chicago Bears are going to reach the next level in their rebuild, they need young guys to step up. Players from their first two draft classes are expected to become the fixtures on the roster around this time. Thankfully, the team has already seen excellent progress from the likes of Kyler Gordon, Jaquan Brisker, and Braxton Jones. However, more is needed. At least two players from their 2023 draft class have to make the leap into at least being really good for this team to contend for the playoffs. The question is which of them do so.
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The most obvious answers are probably right tackle Darnell Wright and defensive tackle Gervon Dexter. They were the two highest picks in that class and both had strong finishes to their rookie seasons. Each looks poised to become a stud at their respective positions. However, Sports Illustrated insider Matt Verderame thinks there is a different name to watch. He is one that many fans have somewhat forgotten about due to a recent notable roster move a couple of months ago in March.
Breakout player to watch: RB Roschon Johnson
Entering his second season with the Bears, Johnson has become a bit of a forgotten man.
Sitting on the depth chart behind free-agent signing D’Andre Swift and alongside veteran Khalil Herbert, Johnson will be fighting for carries. However, as a rookie, the Texas native posted an impressive 4.3 yards per carry, rushing for 352 yards and two touchdowns.
With the Bears loading up in the passing game, Johnson should see light boxes. And, should he beat out Herbert for the second-string job, he’ll be getting plenty of touches to help keep Swift healthy, as the talented back joins his third team in as many years.
The Chicago Bears could look to get Johnson more involved.
The former 4th round pick ended up having a solid rookie season. He averaged 4.3 yards per carry, caught 32 passes, scored two touchdowns, and was the best pass-blocking option at the position. His versatility was apparent from the start. It was why the Bears drafted him in the first place. Now he’s had a full off-season to get his body right. He also enters a new offensive scheme under Shane Waldron that seems to fit his skill set better. His hard-running style should make a great complement to the new arrival, D’Andre Swift.
Much of this depends on what the Bears do with Khalil Herbert. If he sticks around, he may end up eating into the number of carries Johnson could get. However, if the Chicago Bears decided to move on, he’d get several more touches. That could lead to the breakout season referenced above. Johnson has always come across as a player who is just waiting for his big opportunity. He’s been stuck behind more established running backs for most of his career. Sometimes, all a guy needs is a chance.
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