The Chicago Bears are attempting to build a winning team around quarterback Caleb Williams, who is starting his second season in the NFL. They have wide receiver Rome Odunze, who is also going into his second pro campaign, underrated WR D.J. Moore and a revamped offensive line they hope will cut down on how many times Williams gets sacked.
But one area Chicago hasn't improved in is its running game. It ranked 25th in rushing yards and 27th in yards per rushing attempt in 2024, and while RB1 D'Andre Swift is solid, the team doesn't have any type of ground threat behind him.
Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report proposed that the Bears go after Breece Hall next offseason after doing the necessary housekeeping to be able to afford Hall.
"The Bears are heading toward a tight cap situation in 2026," Ballentine wrote. "They are projected to be $9.5 million over the cap heading into the offseason. However, clearing enough cap space to pay for a running back should be doable and Breece Hall figures to be one of the most intriguing names who could be available.
"He has struggled to live up to the expectations of being an early second-rounder. We're waiting on his first 1,000-yard rushing season. ... A fresh start in a Ben Johnson offense could be appealing for both parties."
Hall, a second-round selection in the 2022 draft, was thought to have plenty of potential, but in three pro seasons, he has averaged an underwhelming 4.6 yards per carry. However, he has occasionally flashed his potential as a dual-threat tailback.
His current team has been a mess for a while, and if the Bears are truly building a winning program, he could be a solid fit in the Windy City. Hall could team with Swift to form a potent tag-team duo in the backfield that could take enough pressure off Williams as he looks to develop into a star or at least a starter.
Read more: Bears HC Ben Johnson Has Harsh Words for Team After Chiefs Game
Last season, the Bears lost 10 games in a row en route to a 5-12 record. The hope is that Johnson, their new head coach who spent the previous three years as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, will bring a new mentality and culture to the long-suffering franchise.
But a new mindset and culture won't be enough to make them winners. They need more pieces, especially on offense, and to make life easier on Williams.
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