The Chicago Bears have already made waves this offseason, but former linebacker Lance Briggs believes there’s one more move the team needs to make: draft a power running back. And he’s got a specific name in mind — Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo.
The Bears revamped their offense under new head coach Ben Johnson, added reinforcements on the offensive line, and appear to have their franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams. Now, Briggs says it’s time to round out the backfield.
“With D’Andre Swift being a space-type of back… Cam Skattebo is a guy who runs really well in between the tackles,” Briggs said via CHGO. “He’s an every-down type of back. Great balance, great vision — I don’t think there’s anything he can’t do.”
Skattebo isn’t flashy, but he’s the kind of bruiser who could complement Swift perfectly. At 5’10”, 220 pounds, he brings a hard-nosed running style that could balance the Bears’ offensive attack. He doesn’t have elite burst, but his low center of gravity, strength, and vision make him a consistent chain-mover. Skattebo also offers solid hands out of the backfield, a trait Ben Johnson values in his system.
Briggs’ comments suggest the Bears might be aiming to replicate the “thunder and lightning” formula Johnson used in Detroit — pairing the elusive Swift with a rugged inside runner like Jamaal Williams. Swift thrived in that system when used situationally, and Skattebo could fill the same hammer role in Chicago.
The Bears hold two valuable picks at No. 39 and No. 41 overall. While they’re likely out of range for top backs like Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton, Skattebo is projected as a mid-round steal. If Chicago doesn’t go running back early, Skattebo could be the perfect Day 2 or Day 3 addition.
With a revamped O-line, a rookie QB, and new playmakers, a balanced backfield is the final piece to keep defenses honest. If Briggs gets his wish, Bears fans might see a modern twist on old-school smashmouth football — and Skattebo just might be the one to bring it back.
