Running back Aaron Jones of the Minnesota Vikings.

The Chicago Bears made an investment in the running back position last offseason, but the results didn’t immediately justify the expenditure.

Now, with Ben Johnson taking over as head coach, the running back group could be an area of potential change. Johnson, who built a successful offense with the Detroit Lions centered around a two-back system, led the Lions to consecutive NFC North Division championships. If he aims to create a similar setup in Chicago, he might decide a new running back is necessary.

Jones just completed a one-year contract worth $7 million, turning 30 toward the end of the season. This offseason likely represents Jones’ best shot at securing one last substantial multiyear contract, given the current market for running backs in the NFL. Therefore, testing the free-agent waters makes sense.

Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report on January 27 projected a three-year deal worth $21 million for Jones, and the Chicago Bears have the financial capacity to afford him if they choose.

“New Bears head coach Ben Johnson knows exactly what Jones can offer after repeatedly facing him as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator,” Knox wrote. “Johnson could also be interested in pairing D’Andre Swift with a back like Jones to form a talented duo like the one he had with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery in Detroit.”

Aaron Jones Could Price Out Vikings After Strong 2024 Season.

Running back Aaron Jones of the Minnesota Vikings.

Knox’s projection is significantly higher than Spotrac’s estimated value for Jones’ next contract. Spotrac calculates his value at $5.6 million for a one-year deal, though his impressive 2024 season makes it unlikely Jones would settle for such terms without exploring the market.

Jones finished the 2024 season with 1,138 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns, 51 receptions for 408 yards, and 2 touchdowns. Despite battling injuries, which have been a concern over recent years, Jones played in all 17 regular-season games and the playoffs during his first season with Minnesota.

Bears’ New Staff Must Decide if D’Andre Swift Is Enough at RB.

Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift.

The Bears currently have over $69 million in salary cap space, but after committing $24 million over three years to Swift last offseason, the question arises: How much more do they want to invest in the running back position?

Swift’s contract makes it less likely the team will spend further on the position this offseason, especially with the pressing need to overhaul the offensive line and secure another quality pass rusher.

However, Swift, who began his career with the Lions before being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023, might still appeal to Johnson. Although Johnson wasn’t directly involved in the trade, he would have been aware of the internal discussions regarding Swift.

Minnesota, however, has a stronger case for investing in Jones, as he was a key player in their successful offense last season, and the team doesn’t have significant investment in other running backs. Still, the Vikings may consider drafting a running back in the late first round to potentially replace Jones with a younger, more affordable option.