After a conversation with WCG, I have changed the format of my running series, and it even has a new name, switching the word "Possibilities" with "Breakdowns."
Now although I know that you all love to read about the inner workings of my articles, I think I should probably get to breaking down our running back situation.
The Bears were helped immensely by the addition of rookie Matt Forte, who came out as a second rounder from Tulane and gathered over 1,700 total yards.
Adrian Peterson and Kevin Jones were decent last year as backups, but the Bears ultimately failed as a rushing team, finishing 24th in rushing yards and yards per rush, a very, very, very bad team that supposedly "gets off the bus running."
So how are we looking personnel-wise?
How are we looking now?
Matt Forte was obviously a big help last season, just one look at his stats will show you that he is a player who can become dominant, as he was one of the best rookies in this year's class.
His 1,715 total yards were huge to the Bears; however, Forte struggled with consistency and ultimately was stopped down the stretch, which hurt the Bears and their post-season aspirations.
Forte averaged over five yards per carry three times throughout the season, but also averaged less than three yards per carry another three times, one of those coming against the lowly Detroit Lions.
If Forte is going to become an every down back who will help the Bears become a Super Bowl winning franchise, he needs to work on his consistency or he will risk becoming another Anthony Thomas.
Kevin Jones was thought to be a player who would come in, share the load with Forte, and help the Bears in the running game.
Although he had a great rookie year, he has disappeared from the spotlight and is now trying to make his way back (Anthony Thomas?). However, I don't see him being able to do this with the Bears.
Possible Free Agents?
Deuce McAllister: Although he has had injury concerns, he is still able to run well and could provide a lot of guidance to help Forte avoid a disappointing career.
Fred Taylor: Taylor was just released and Jack Del Rio said that Taylor should have a chance with another team. Could that team be the Bears?
Look out for the next installment on wide receivers, coming likely on Friday.