Chicago Bears: RB options with Kareem Hunt off the table
By Erik Lambert
The Chicago Bears were thrust to the forefront of the news cycles when running back Kareem Hunt became available last year.
It wasn’t hard to understand why. Their head coach had a deep connection with the former rushing champion. Rumors swirled that Jordan Howard wasn’t viewed as the best fit for their system. It was a natural fit that the media tried desperately to push forward what with the Bears avoiding an outright answer as to whether they were interested or not.
In the end, it never got that far. The Cleveland Browns signed Hunt to a one-year deal, ending the madness before it had a chance to really get started. Now the Bears are left with a question. With Hunt off the table, are there any other running backs about to hit the market that they should consider? Here are five names worth watching.
Le’Veon Bell
Most people will dismiss this idea for the obvious reason that it would cost a ton of money. Money the Bears aren’t in a position to give. Then again, there’s always a way to find that cash if a team is motivated enough to make a splash. Especially one that has reason to believe to think they’re close to a Super Bowl title. So try to think about this from the perspective of head coach Matt Nagy and the Bears offensive staff. What could Le’Veon Bell do for your offense?
In a word: everything. Bell is one of the most versatile and talented running backs in the NFL. He was a superstar almost from the jump in Pittsburgh. Not only an athletic, patient runner but close to being an actual wide receiver out of the backfield. A true Swiss army knife as a football player and everything the Bears could want. That is if they’re willing to pay through the nose to get him. Last rumblings hinted Bell wanted something around $14.5 million per year or more.