The Chicago Bears made significant investments in the running back position last offseason, but the returns haven’t been immediate. With new head coach Ben Johnson taking charge, the running back group now holds more potential for the team. Johnson previously constructed a successful two-back system with the Detroit Lions, which helped lead the team to two consecutive NFC North titles. If Johnson wants to replicate this success with the Bears, he may look to add a new running back.
Aaron Jones, who recently completed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, is nearing the end of his career at 30 years old. This offseason could be his best opportunity for one more sizable contract, making it likely he will test the free agent market. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report projected that Jones could land a three-year, $21 million deal, with the Bears having the financial flexibility to sign him if desired. Knox highlighted that Johnson, familiar with Jones from his time in Detroit, might see value in pairing Jones with D’Andre Swift to form a dynamic backfield tandem, much like the one Johnson had with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery in Detroit.
