Coming into the 2018 season last year, there were high expectations for Jordan Howard with the Chicago Bears. Although, when the season ended, there was nothing but disappointment for the third-year running back.
After a substandard season last year, Howard is looking to re-establish himself with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019. Earlier this offseason, Philadelphia traded for Howard to deploy him as their starting running back this year.
The Bears drafted Howard with their fifth-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, Howard impressed by rushing for 1,313 yards on 252 carries (5.2 yards per carry) and got into the end zone seven times.
There was a growing belief that Howard was becoming the Bears' long-term solution at the running back position. To repeat his rookie success, Howard rushed for 1,122 yards on 276 rushes (4.1 yards per carry) and nine touchdowns.
Then, when the Bears hired Matt Nagy, the media began to salivate at the prospect of Howard in Nagy's offense. Their expectations for Howard didn't come to light as the Bears running back was used a bit differently in 2018.
He may have rushed for nine touchdowns but Howard's 3.7 yards per carry was a career-low for the workhorse back. Along with his rushing, Howard only caught 20 passes, which was also a career-low for him.
Now, in Philadelphia, Howard is expected to assume the role as the team's lead running back. Although, rookie Miles Sanders and veteran Darren Sproles figure to receive some touches as well.
If Howard can return to being the running back he was in 2016-2017, the Eagles offense could be one of the best in the NFL this year.
Follow Us
Subscribe