Former NFL GM compares Bears draft pick to Monsters of the Midway
The Chicago Bears might have uncovered a mid-round gem in the fourth-round pick RB Roschon Johnson out of Texas. Johnson’s college stats don’t jump off the page, but it’s important to note that he was sharing carries with the No. 8 overall pick Bijan Robinson. Not to mention Johnson had to transition from quarterback to […]
The Chicago Bears might have uncovered a mid-round gem in the fourth-round pick RB Roschon Johnson out of Texas.
Johnson’s college stats don’t jump off the page, but it’s important to note that he was sharing carries with the No. 8 overall pick Bijan Robinson. Not to mention Johnson had to transition from quarterback to running back at Texas after he was rated the No. 3 dual-threat QB in the 2019 high school class.
His bruising style of running could translate into a three-down back if Chicago ever needs him in that role. He joins a running back room featuring D’Onta Foreman and Khalil Herbert, but his ability to pick up the blitz could land him a significant role as a rookie.
Physicality was an important trait to find after David Montgomery bolted for the Detroit Lions in free agency. The Bears did that and then some by selecting Johnson.
In fact, one former NFL general manager sees similarities between Johnson and the famed Monster of the Midway. Former Minnesota Vikings GM Rick Spielman raved about Johnson’s abilities in a recent appearance on CBS.
“When you think of the Monsters of the Midway, you think of (Johnson),” Spielman said. November, December, when it’s cold and snowing, give this monster the ball and he’s going to turn out yards for you.”
That is strong praise from a front office executive who has experience working in the NFC North, and with the Bears as a Director of Pro Personnel from 1997-1999. Bears fans should keep an eye on Johnson in training camp as a player who could exceed his draft value early in the 2023 season.
