General manager Ryan Poles, head coach Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears have built a prolific offense around young players in recent years that Chicago parlayed into an NFC Wild Card victory over the Packers in the playoffs last January.
After former seventh-round rookie Kyle Monangai’s emergence, and given D’Andre Swift’s presence at running back, veteran Roschon Johnson could be a potential cap casualty for the Bears, according to Sporting News’ Dharya Sharma.
“Though Johnson hasn’t been able to make a consistent impact for the Brars after being drafted in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, a fresh start could be what he needs to unlock his potential,” wrote Sharma.
“Johnson is a powerful runner who thrives in short-yardage situations. This was on full display in 2024 when he tallied six touchdowns in 14 games, all coming from inside the opponent’s 20-yard line.”
Signing Johnson wouldn’t just be a bet on his short-yardage prowess or as a red-zone weapon, he would provide quality depth in a Packers’ backfield that is desperately lacking proven commodities.
Behind Josh Jacobs, the Packers are banking on Marshon Lloyd staying healthy and effective.
But, if the Bears allow Johnson to shake loose, he could be the kind of player who helps Jordan Love and Green Bay’s offense extend drives, wear down defenses late, and could be ideally positioned to exact some revenge against his former team.