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The Bears struck gold with a rookie tailback in 2016 when Jordan Howard turned into one of the league’s most explosive runners. In 2017, lightning may have struck again.
Rookie Tarik Cohen ripped off one of the young season’s most electrifying runs, reversing field position against the Falcons in a 46-yard jaunt that put Chicago in scoring position. It was a statement carry from an overlooked fourth-round pick who may make the Bears’ offense better than anyone could have expected.
What this means for the Bears: It’s too early to make any kind of definitive statement, but Cohen’s presence adds a meaningful punch to a backfield that already features 2016 1,300-yard rusher Howard. Cohen’s long run set the stage for a four-yard touchdown plunge from Howard, tying the team’s season opener at 10-all at halftime.
What this means for Tarik Cohen: Cohen has plenty to prove in 2017. Not only is he making the leap from an FCS program to the NFL, but he’s also one of the league’s smallest tailbacks at 5’6. On Sunday, he did the Bears — and alma mater North Carolina A&T — proud.