The Chicago Bears selected 10 players in the 2023 NFL Draft, and there's a chance that half of them could become starters.
First-round pick Darnell Wright is a lock to begin the year as the starting right tackle. Second-round cornerback Tyrique Stevenson has the inside track to start opposite Jaylon Johnson as an outside defender. Defensive linemen Gervon Dexter Sr. and Zacch Pickens will play significant roles this year, even if they aren't listed in the starting lineup.
But where the Chicago Bears' 2023 draft class can become truly special is if one of their Day 3 picks emerges as a first-teamer. According to a recent list on NFL.com, running back Roschon Johnson can become that guy.
"The Bears signed D'Onta Foreman to a one-year deal in March, but the veteran has started more than three games in a season only once (nine in 2022 with the Panthers)," NFL.com's Chad Reuter wrote. "Johnson's combination of power and strong second-level cuts should earn him carries early in the year, and starts later on."
Roschon Johnson is not your average 4th-round pick
Johnson has been the darling of the Bears' draft class since his name was announced with the 114th overall pick. It's been a bizarre development. Rarely are fourth-round selections talked up as much as Johnson has been.
“He’s someone we really feel compelled can become a pillar of this organization for a really long time,” Bears Southwest area scout John Syty said on draft weekend.
The Chicago Bears were shocked Johnson fell to the fourth round despite serving as a backup running back for most of his career at Texas. His role was less about his talent and more about Bijan Robinson's presence on the Longhorns' roster. Still, Johnson had enough impressive tape and leadership qualities to make him a surefire NFL prospect.
Roschon Johnson carried the ball 93 times for 554 yards and five touchdowns in 2022. He finished his career at Texas averaging 5.6 yards per carry on nearly 400 rushes.
"I absolutely love this player, and I love the person even more," General Manager Ryan Poles said of Johnson in an interview with Cynthia Frelund. "You talk about contact, balance, strength, size. We're going to love this guy, especially when we get in December. He's a special guy who can enhance the culture in our locker room, too."
It certainly sounds like Poles expects Johnson to have a significant impact when the calendar flips to December. And perhaps it will be because he's emerged as the Chicago Bears' starter.