Bears Re-Sign Benny Cunningham

 

The Chicago Bears have officially brought RB Benny Cunningham back on a one-year deal. Cunningham (27) is good depth to have offensively and on the special teams. Last year with the Bears he played in 14 games, rushing for 29 yards on nine attempts while also recording 20 catches for 240 yards with two receiving touchdowns. He also returned seven kick returns for 147 yards.

2018 will be his sixth year in the league as he will return to the spot of third-string running back while lining up as a receiver and playing on special teams. His versatility is very valuable to have, especially on Matt Nagy’s offense. Last year under John Fox, he was used more as a receiver than running back, which seems funny since his offensive coaching was very run-heavy. In his years with the Rams he averaged roughly 43 rush attempts per-season. With Nagy calling the shots, he can get a solid number of rush attempts as well as being a target for Trubisky.

When it comes to the running back core, it should be the same as it was last year with Jordan Howard, Tarik Cohen and Cunningham. A real nice mix of power, ability to catch and agility with this core. Cunningham will be the oldest of the three as we will be 28 by season’s beginning, but he is still well young enough to be effective.

It seemed unsure that he was going to come back. He visited with the New Orleans Saints but ultimately decided to return to Chicago. He will get more time in Chicago as opposed to New Orleans and he already knows most of the key players on the Bears well. Does this mean running backs will not be drafted this year? Seems doubtful any will, seeing as they have their same core from last year in place and there are other important holes to fill. This is overall a good guy to bring back.