The Chicago Bears are slated to have a new primary running back in 2023. This is after multi-year starter David Montgomery bolted for the division-rival Detroit Lions this offseason. 

Fortunately for the Bears, several viable options exist to replace Montgomery. Former sixth-round draft pick Khalil Herbert is still in town, joined by 2023 fourth-round pick Roschon Johnson and free agent addition D'Onta Foreman. 

At least one Bears' writer believes that the team will have a "real competition," for the starting gig. 

Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune said he would "not assume anyone has an upper hand" for the role. Based off of capital invested, it does seem that Johnson will be the future of the Bears' backfield. 

I see a real competition here with Herbert, draft pick Roschon Johnson and D’Onta Foreman battling to be the starter on first and second downs," explained Biggs. "I would not assume anyone has an upper hand, but in a long view at the position, the Bears are betting on Johnson in seasons to come based on the draft investment."

Biggs also mentioned Trestan Ebner as an interesting player to watch this offseason. 

"Perhaps Ebner can open some eyes this summer. He was a skilled receiver out of the backfield at Baylor and didn’t get a lot of opportunities to showcase that ability last season," Biggs explained. "He’s also a very solid performer on special teams."

Foreman is the most experienced option with 13 games started over his five seasons in the league. Foreman impressed in Carolina in 2022 after Christian McCaffrey was shipped out, finishing the season with 914 yards and five touchdowns. 

Herbert has spent the last two seasons as Montgomery's backup. The former sixth-round pick averaged a whopping 5.7 yards per attempt in 2022, perhaps showcasing a need for more involvement. 

Roschon Johnson was stuck in the shadow of fellow Texas RB Bijan Robinson, but flashed in spurts. Johnson finished the 2022 season with 554 yards and six TDs and also showcased receiving ability, securing 14 catches for 128 yards. 

While Johnson is the future, he may benefit from a year behind either Herbert or Foreman. As Biggs points out, Ebner might scratch his way onto the roster due to his special teams prowess. This will be a fascinating battle to watch this summer. 

Featured image via © Daniel Bartel | 2023 Jan 8