Roschon Johnson’s Latest Quote Has Eerie Walter Payton Vibes

The Chicago Bears didn’t have a pressing need at running back when they took Roschon Johnson in the 4th round. It was a case of the player being too high on their board to justify passing on. GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus felt his college career as a backup at Texas successfully masked how good of a player Johnson is. He likely would’ve been a star for almost any other program. Playing behind a phenom like Bijan Robinson can have that effect, and the Bears appear grateful for it.

Johnson has already drawn attention throughout training camp thanks to his diverse skillset. He was already a solid runner. What sets him apart is his soft hands as a receiver and especially his ability in pass protection. That is something he takes particular pride in. As a result, the Bears have started giving him more work with the first-team offense. Yet what has drawn the most attention lately is his relentless running style. The guy is a load to bring down. He proved it in the preseason opener against Tennessee and again in joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts.

Jeff Joniak and Tom Thayer of Bears Etc. talked to him about it. Johnson’s reply was short and reminiscent of another great running back who had the same mentality.

Roschon Johnson has that Walter Payton mentality.

Sweetness’ reputation throughout his career was crafting his body into a weapon. That is why he put himself through a workout regimen that was on par with the U.S. Navy Seals. He was so muscled up when the season began that he was able to throw his body around like a wrecking ball. Bringing him down was equivalent to riding a bull for more than eight seconds. Johnson has the same mentality. He embodies Payton’s old credo of “Never die easy.” Every extra inch can matter in this game.

Nobody knows what the future holds for Roschon Johnson. He has more than enough talent to embark on a successful NFL career. He’s already encroaching on those coveted running back snaps with the starting offense. He likely won’t overtake Khalil Herbert this season, but at this rate, he may be the starter by 2024. It comes down to how well he meshes with the wide-zone offense the Bears like to run. Given his relentless mentality, no obstacle is big enough to stop him from achieving his goals.