After getting shutout in their first preseason outing against the Denver Broncos last week, the Bears bounced back in a big way last night in their 22-23 road loss to the Patriots. The biggest difference came in the running game as the Bears managed to rush for over 100 yards, a drastic improvement over their paltry 48-yard total against the Broncos.
With big games had by Jeremy Langford and rookie Jordan Howard, the enigmatic running back picture in Chicago is beginning to become clearer by the day. Here’s an updated look into the Bears running back depth-chart.
Jeremy Langford
Langford has locked himself into the starting role as the Bears lead-back barring any injury in the next couple preseason games. Looking to fill the shoes of long-time Bears work-horse back, Matt Forte, he will need to improve on his run-blocking and pass-catching abilities in order to completely fill the void. If he fails to improve, the third-down role in the Bears backfield could be up for grabs between veterans Jacquizz Rodgers and Ka’Deem Carey.
Jacquizz Rodgers/Ka’Deem Carey
The two scat-backs in the stable could be seeing the field more than ever before with the third-down role still up in the air. Because of their innate ability to catch passes out of the backfield and pass-protect, Rodgers and Carey could battle for playing time right out of the gate in what used to be a role served by only man for nearly a decade in Forte. The next couple of preseason games will likely hold a lot of weight in deciding how the backfield will look come week one.
Jordan Howard
The man they call “The Bulldozer” looks to be last on the Bears depth chart at this point in time, but has the potential to climb the ranks as he gets more reps during preseason. Last night he made the most of his opportunity, picking up 46 yards on 11 carries.
Known for his ability to pick up the tough yards and break tackles, Howard’s role might be reserved for goal-line situations out of the gate until he can develop into a more complete back. If Howard can improve on the other facets of being a running back in the NFL, Howard could go on to challenge for the starting role down the line.
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