Ben Johnson reveals what Salvon Ahmed must do to win Bears' RB battle

Ahmed made a strong impression against Cleveland, turning five touches into 72 yards from scrimmage. He carried twice for 17 yards and caught all three of his targets for 55 yards, including a 49-yard touchdown reception from Case Keenum.

After the game, Johnson acknowledged what Ahmed brings to Chicago's backfield while offering some insight into how the Bears are evaluating the position behind D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai.

"We feel good about our top two backs right now," Johnson said. "The battle for three, four, and five comes down to special teams and how you separate yourself."

Salvon Ahmed showed his big-play ability against Browns

There isn't much mystery surrounding the top of Chicago's running back depth chart. Swift and Monangai are positioned to handle the bulk of the work when the regular season begins.

But everything behind them remains up for grabs.

Ahmed provided a pretty convincing argument for himself Saturday.

"He's got that slashing mentality where he's hard to bring down in space, which showed up today and throughout camp," Johnson said.

The 49-yard touchdown was the perfect example. Ahmed caught a short pass from Keenum and turned it into one of Chicago's biggest offensive plays of the afternoon.

That explosiveness gives Ahmed a trait that can separate him from the other running backs like Roschon Johnson, who are fighting for jobs.

Ben Johnson wants more from Ahmed on special teams, pass protection

Johnson identified two areas that could ultimately determine whether Ahmed survives the Bears' final roster cuts: special teams and pass protection.

"We'll challenge him to define a special teams role and continue improving in pass protection," Johnson said. "As a smaller back, holding up against blitzing linebackers is something I always look for."

For players competing to be the third or fourth running back, offensive production is only part of the equation. They aren't guaranteed enough touches on Sundays to justify a roster spot based exclusively on what they provide as runners. Special teams is usually the difference.

Pass protection matters, too, particularly in a Ben Johnson offense where a blown assignment could expose Caleb Williams to a free rusher.

Ahmed showed Saturday that he can make something happen when the football gets into his hands, and now he has to prove he can help the Bears when it doesn't.