As Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery enters year three, expectations are that Montgomery will finally take a major step forward, even after rushing for 1070 yards in 2020. The former third-round pick’s sophomore season was just scratching the surface of what Montgomery could develop into when Chicago traded up 14 spots in the 2019 NFL Draft to acquire Montgomery.
“It wasn’t enough for me last year, knowing my untapped potential that I have within myself,” Montgomery said via the Bears official Youtube page. “Just being more vocal, being able to stand what I say and allow my words to carry a lot of strength when I speak. Doing all things right at all times.”
Leadership is certainly one quality that Montgomery will need to possess, especially as the Bears continue to overhaul the offense. With Montgomery being the workhorse running back that Chicago expects him to be heading into 2021, his goal will be leading the entire running back room, alongside veteran Tarik Cohen, after reviving the running game during the second half of the 2020 season.
“Biggest thing for me that clicked, just the mentality for everybody,” Montgomery said. “We all just trusted in each other. We believed that something was going to work. It’s embracing the role that is meant for me, whatever that may be. I think I could have done better for my guys around me.”
Leading the running back room is just one area where Montgomery can have an impact in 2021. Last season, he also showed that he could impact Chicago’s passing game, with 54 receptions on just 68 targets, averaging 8.1 yards per reception, accounting for 25 of Chicago’s first downs.
Through his first two seasons, Montgomery has shown that he can be more productive, however, Chicago’s porous offensive line impacted how good of a piece Montgomery could legitimately for the Bears offense. As he heads into year three, it’s clear that Montgomery has his sights under being one of the top running backs in the NFL.