The Chicago Bears may have already found a seventh-round gem last year. Now, Ben Johnson might be preparing to do it again.

Another hidden weapon could be quietly rising on the Bears’ draft radar — and most fans haven’t even heard his name yet.

Bears Coach Ben Johnson Quietly Targeting Another Late-Round Running Back Gem

The Chicago Bears struck gold in the most unlikely place during the 2025 NFL Draft.

In the seventh round, they selected Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai — a pick that initially flew under the radar. But by the end of the season, Monangai had become a key contributor to Chicago’s No. 3 ranked rushing attack, working alongside veteran runner D’Andre Swift.

The surprise breakout reinforced something many around the league already suspected: head coach Ben Johnson has a sharp eye for undervalued running back talent.

Now, as the Bears prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, signs suggest Johnson may be hunting for another hidden gem.

And this time, the target could be a versatile weapon from Navy.

A Prospect Quietly Drawing NFL Attention

According to college football insider Thomas Christopher, numerous NFL teams attended Navy’s Pro Day earlier this month. Among them were heavy hitters like the Chiefs, Seahawks, Ravens, Packers, Texans, and Bears.

But there was one clear reason for the unusually large turnout.

Running back Eli Heidenreich.

Heidenreich has emerged as one of the most intriguing under-the-radar prospects in the entire draft class.

Rather than fitting the mold of a traditional running back, he brings a hybrid skill set that modern offenses are increasingly valuing.

During his final college season, Heidenreich produced eye-opening numbers:

499 rushing yards
941 receiving yards
Nine total touchdowns

That kind of production highlights his biggest strength: versatility.

He can run between the tackles, catch passes like a wide receiver, and line up across the formation — giving offensive coordinators a wide range of options.

Comparisons to Beloved Patriots Playmakers

Because of his unique role, many analysts have compared Heidenreich to former New England Patriots fan favorites like:

Danny Woodhead
James White

Neither player was ever considered a “franchise back,” but both became critical weapons in creative offenses thanks to their ability to contribute in multiple ways.

Heidenreich appears cut from the same cloth.

He combines a physical running style, solid speed, and strong receiving ability. His reported 4.44-second 40-yard dash further proves he has enough explosiveness to threaten defenses in space.

Scouts have also praised his route-running ability and understanding of defensive leverage, traits that often translate well to the NFL.

Why the Bears Could Be Interested

The Bears’ interest in running backs shouldn’t come as a surprise.

While the team enjoyed a productive rushing attack last season, the position group still carries some uncertainty heading into 2026.

Travis Homer is entering free agency
D’Andre Swift is in the final year of his contract
Depth behind the starters remains thin

Adding a late-round running back would provide insurance and long-term flexibility without requiring a major investment.

For Johnson, who prefers to build his offense around a strong rushing attack, maintaining a deep stable of running backs is essential.

Ben Johnson’s Philosophy: Run First, Attack Later

Johnson’s offensive system relies heavily on the ground game.

A strong rushing attack accomplishes several goals:

It takes pressure off the quarterback
It creates play-action opportunities downfield
It keeps defenses off balance

Johnson used this formula successfully during his time in Detroit, and he appears determined to replicate it in Chicago.

But unlike traditional run-heavy offenses, Johnson favors modern versatility — players who can line up in different roles and create mismatches.

Heidenreich fits that philosophy perfectly.

A Classic Day Three Target

Despite his talent, Heidenreich is still projected as a Day Three selection in the draft.

That’s exactly the range where Johnson has already proven he can find value.

If the Navy playmaker is still available late in the draft, the Bears could easily make another bold move to add him to their backfield.

And if history repeats itself, Chicago might once again uncover one of the draft’s biggest hidden gems.

For now, one thing is certain:

Ben Johnson is still hunting for running backs — and Eli Heidenreich’s name is officially on the radar.