Chicago Bears receive a bittersweet update on David Montgomery

Bears running back David Montgomery has avoided a serious injury, but he still may miss Week 1.

The Chicago Bears got an injury scare on Wednesday, when running back David Montgomery suffered a non-contact injury and was carted off the practice field. It was later deemed to be a strained groin, and on Thursday morning NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Montgomery will be out 2-4 weeks.

Montgomery had a solid (if unspectacular) rookie season in 2019, with 242 carries for 889 yards (3.7 yards per carry) with six touchdowns along with 25 catches for 185 yards and another touchdown. With the prospect of a more balanced and more efficient offense this year, Montgomery has been an easy breakout candidate.

The 2-4 week recovery timetable gives Montgomery a chance to be ready for the season opener against the Detroit Lions. Sept. 13 is a little over two weeks away.

What would the Bears do without David Montgomery?

Even if Montgomery suits up in Week 1 it’s safe to assume he’ll be limited in some capacity. For the first few games, he may have his touches capped as a precaution.

Tarik Cohen was second on the Bears in catches (79) and targets (104) last year. He wasn’t particularly proficient (5.8 yards per catch, 4.4 yards per target), and he only had 64 carries (just 3.3 yards per tote). So Cohen’s passing game niche is clear.

The rest of Chicago’s running back depth chart is not inspiring (Ryan Nall, Artavis Pierce). But wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson is an interesting backfield option. He has been working with the Bears’ running backs in training camp, and the New England Patriots gave him double-digit carries as a running back for two games in 2018. Patterson is a big-play threat whenever he touches the ball.

The Bears could pursue some free agent running backs as well. The most prominent among them is former Falcon Devonta Freeman. Former Seahawk C.J. Prosise recently worked out for the Texans and Lions, so a trip to Chicago could be in order for him now. Even with the good news regarding Montgomery, the Bears should be looking to add a running back in case he misses games.