Howard looking to build upon stellar 2016 season

In a season full of injuries, losses and overall disappointment, Jordan Howard was one of the few bright spots on the Chicago Bears’ offense last year.

Now, he looks forward to what’s to come this year.

“I’m definitely excited about camp, but I’m more excited to start playing games." He told reporters at Wheaton-Warrenville South High School on Saturday. "It means that season’s almost close, so you gotta embrace it.”

Howard had a fantastic season running the ball last year. His 1,313 rushing yards were the second most in the NFL, and his 5.2 yards per carry was the second highest among 1,000-yard rushers. However, he didn't offer a whole lot as a receiver. That's an area in which he plans on improving, he says.

"(I've been working on) just my route running, things like that. Looking the ball all the way in, and I had eye surgery as well to improve my vision." He told the media that he had the surgery back in May.

When asked about if he was nervous to have the surgery, he stated, “I was kinda nervous, ‘cause they put me to sleep, but once I got in there, I was pretty much relaxed, and it was a pretty cool procedure."

Howard was in Wheaton alongside teammates Mitch Trubisky and Kevin White to promote the Gatorade Beat the Heat program. The three gave talks to high school student-athletes about the importance of hydration as football players. They also attended the USA Football 7v7 Great Lakes Regional Championship.

Howard, a fifth-round pick last year, blew away everyone's expectations of him with his rookie campaign. Judging by his comments, it appears that we may be in for a similar performance this season.