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The Chicago Bears wanted to fix their running back situation this offseason, but many fans think they didn’t do enough.
Before the NFL Draft, there was talk that the Bears might pick a big-name running back early. But that didn’t happen. Instead, they waited until the seventh round to pick Kyle Monangai from Rutgers.
The Bears are expected to keep only three running backs on the active roster. Right now, D’Andre Swift and rookie Monangai are basically guaranteed spots. That leaves Roschon Johnson and Travis Homer fighting for the last one.
According to Enzo Flojo from Clutch Points, Homer might be the one who gets cut.
Flojo says Homer came back to the Bears this year mostly because he was already familiar with the team. He’s been seen as a solid backup and special-teams player. But things are changing fast in the Bears’ backfield. Monangai is younger, cheaper, and more versatile, and new running backs coach Eric Bieniemy wants players who can run, catch, and play on special teams. Monangai checks all those boxes.
“Travis Homer re-signed with the Bears in free agency for a simple reason: familiarity. The versatile running back and special teams contributor had carved out a niche role and seemed like a safe depth option heading into the 2025 offseason. NFL backfields are fluid, though, and the Bears’ running back room is rapidly evolving,” Flojo wrote. “Though Chicago didn’t select a marquee name in the draft, they took a flier on Kyle Monangai. He is a productive back from Rutgers with solid burst and vision. More importantly, new running backs coach Eric Bieniemy is known for wanting multi-dimensional backs. He wants guys who can contribute in both the passing game and on special teams. Monangai fits that mold. Roschon Johnson remains in the mix as well, and UDFA Ian Wheeler is turning heads during minicamp. If the Bears determine they have enough contributors in that phase from younger, cheaper options, Homer’s spot could be redundant. At 26 years old, he’s no longer a developmental piece. He’s a known commodity, and that might not be enough.”
Roschon Johnson is still in the mix too, and an undrafted rookie named Ian Wheeler has been getting attention at minicamp. So if younger players can fill Homer’s role, and do it for less money, he might not have a place on the team.
Homer, who is 26 years old, has played six seasons in the NFL, four with Seattle, then two with the Bears. But since joining Chicago, he’s only gained 23 rushing yards in 26 games, which shows he hasn’t been a big part of the offence.
In short, while Homer has experience, the Bears seem to be leaning toward younger, more dynamic players in their running back group. His time in Chicago could be running out.