After a major letdown these past three seasons, a Roschon Johnson cut is possible during the summer as the Chicago Bears could stick to two running backs entering the regular season. The team didn’t draft an RB, but they added Salvon Ahmed and undrafted rookie Coleman Bennett as depth to probably replace the bust. According to Alex Kay of Bleacher Report, ever since he stepped into the squad in 2023, he’s been a disappointment, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him released. Johnson is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and it’s unlikely he will generate any trade interest, so here’s what Kay had to say:
“With Johnson rarely seeing the field and getting relegated mostly to special teams work in the seven games he was active for last year, it would be hard to fault the Bears for moving on from the running back. Johnson logged a mere two carries and didn’t see a single target in 2025,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Bears have high-stakes starters between veteran D’Andre Swift and rising talent Kyle Monangai. While Swift has been brought up in release rumors, it’s easy for the team to move the former fourth-round pick instead.
Roschon Johnson Cut: Bears May Face Abrupt $4.6M Decision
Monangai ultimately won the backup role at least and could excel as a capable starter after the 2026 season. If the Bears are looking to trade anyone, it would be Swift. It’d be difficult for the team to find a trade partner for Johnson as he hasn’t proven that he’s consistent since he’s been marred with injuries, especially.
Since Bennett and Ahmed will contest for the RB3 role, it would only be right for the Bears to release the fourth-rounder, so he could join a new team on a fresh start. He won’t sign a major deal in his next contract, but these teams should be interested.
Potential Next Teams
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys signed Javonte Williams to a long-term extension earlier this offseason, but they didn’t select an RB in the draft nor one in free agency. While it’s not necessary, there is some room for improvement in their depth unit. Between Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, there has been a lack of consistent play with these three running backs. It doesn’t mean they’re incapable of making the cut for a backup role, but Johnson provides a little more promise that could battle it in the backfield.
He probably won’t start in Dallas, but it would allow him to start new in Jerry’s World.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Meanwhile, the Jaguars let Travis Etienne walk in free agency, and he signed with the New Orleans Saints on a pricey deal. The team knew he’d be too expensive, and the Jaguars decided to acquire Chris Rodriguez Jr. in free agency on a low-stakes deal. With Rodriguez and Bhayshul Tuten battling for the starting role, it wouldn’t hurt to add Johnson to the mix.
Denver Broncos
Because the Broncos signed J.K. Dobbins to another low-stakes deal, they’re not itching for another running back, but due to Dobbins’ injury history, it’s possible they could look to add one more. The team drafted Jonah Coleman in the fourth round of this year’s draft, but they need time to get him adjusted to the offense. RJ Harvey is currently the favorite to lead the unit, which leaves Jaleel McLaughlin waiting for a larger role.
If they cut McLaughlin, it could open the door for Johnson.
