Many people find it hard to accept the idea that a backup running back in college can somehow become an NFL starter. Such things don’t compute. Before going further, it’s worth mentioned Barry Sanders was once a backup to Thurman Thomas in college. It is possible for two really good players to share the same backfield with one getting all the attention. Many experts believe that is what happened to Roschon Johnson. Under normal circumstances, he had the talent to be one of the best running backs in the country. He simply had the misfortune of sharing a depth chart with Bijan Robinson.
Still, some remain skeptical. Johnson went in the 4th round. Players drafted that late rarely become stars. Of course, this ignores Aaron Jones, who went in the 5th in 2017. Tony Pollard went in the 4th in 2019. It’s not as uncommon as people think. Often the best thing to do in these situations is to painstakingly illustrate why Johnson is the real deal through video clips and numbers. Brett Kollman of Bootleg Football, one of the best analysts on YouTube, was happy to oblige.
He brings size and power to the equation, which allows him to shrug off tackle attempts on a regular basis. While not a burner in terms of speed, he has enough juice and acceleration to get through holes and tear off big chunks of yardage. Where he separates himself from other backs is his versatility. He was a capable receiver out of the backfield during his entire time at Texas. He was also the one they relied on in pass protection. Last but not least, he was a willing participant on special teams.
Tashard Choice, the running backs coach at Texas, played in the NFL for several years. He stated without blinking that he believes Roschon Johnson may end up the starter for Chicago by the end of this season. This wasn’t merely a coach talking up his guy. It was a man being honest. The buzz around this young man is real. It’s everywhere. When that happens, it is wise to pay attention. Rumors are the Bears were overjoyed when they got Johnson. That is a clear sign they have high hopes for him.
