Jeremy Langford to the Chicago Bears: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown
Published by Ross Read on May 2, 2015
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
When the Bears added Michigan State’s Jeremy Langford in the fourth round, they probably made two running backs on the team very nervous.
Langford is an honorable mention All-Big Ten player who started all 27 games in the last two seasons at Michigan State. He’s 6”, 208 lbs and has solid speed running a 4.42 sec 40-time at the combine.
There’s nothing flashy about what Langford does, but he has a set of skills that will come in handy in the NFL.
Once a former wide receiver and cornerback, Langford has outstanding hands. He’s a good receiver out of the backfield who also does a good job in pass protection. Langford showed a willingness to play special teams during his sophmore season which will come in handy for the Bears.
When he has the ball in his hands, Langford does a good job of turning the corner and blowing by linebackers up the field. He had 22 runs last season of over 15 yards, which was good for fifth in the Big 10.
Langford is still developing, but it’s going to be tough for him to be an every-down back. He just doesn’t have the power to break tackles or knock people over, and he’s not going to make too many people miss in space.
Where Langford is going to make his money is on third down. Offensive coordinators will put him on the field knowing he can protect the quarterback on blitz situations. He’s a good chip blocker who squares his shoulders when taking on pass-rushers.
Langford will also serve as a security blanket on third downs as quarterbacks will begin to trust his receiving skills. He plays a lot like current NFL running backs Shane Vereen and Donald Brown.
In the past, head coach John Fox has been known to rely on multiple running backs. With only one year left on his deal, the Bears might let Matt Forte walk in favor of going with a player like Langford and somebody else who can run between the tackles.
The question going into 2015 is who’s the odd man out? Forte is a lock to make the team, and it will be tough to see a new general manager’s fourth-round pick get cut right away.
Ka’Deem Carey and Jacquizz Rodgers will be the ones to battle it out for the final roster spot. Carey has the early edge due to his youth and ability to churn out some tough yards and get into the end zone in goal-line situations.
In the NFL you need guys like Langford. Running backs who can catch the ball and take care of the quarterback go on to have nice long careers in the league because coaches trust them. This is another solid pick for the Bears as they focus on the little things needed to win tough football games.
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