Video Credit:@_MarcusD_
Jeremy Langford has what it takes to replace Matt Forte.
When Ryan Pace drafted Langford in the fourth round, he did so with the intention of the Michigan State product taking over for the long-time Bear Matt Forte.
Although I’m sure he was happy with the draft pick, I don’t believe Pace knew that he possibly hit a home run.
Langford Has Impressed Since Day 1
Taking a look back at my notes from the first day of training camp, I was impressed by Langford’s vision and speed, which are two things that the media is starting to catch up on after the past two games.
However, I had a hunch that the rookie was “special.”
Langford with an impressive run. Watch out for #36 Bears fans!
— Da Bears Brothers (@DaBearsBros) August 3, 2015
Note: This was before he even changed to #33! 😉
Making the Most of the Opportunity at Hand
Now, due to Forte’s MCL sprain, Langford has been given the chance to shine, and boy has he done just that.
His stats tell a compelling story. In the past two games in which his role expanded, Langford has 38 carries for 145 yards (3.8 AVG) and 10 receptions for 179 yards (17.9 AVG) for a total of three touchdowns.
Those numbers aren’t staggering, but they are impressive. Langford is a different type of back compared to Forte, and his speed and vision allowed him to break the 83-yard touchdown against St. Louis.
Needless to say, he looks like a seasoned pro.
Taking a look at Forte’s first two games with a full workload back in 2008, he carried the ball 46 times for 215 yards (4.7 AVG) and a touchdown. He also had six catches for 39 yards.
Langford’s numbers speak volumes to what type of career lies ahead of him. Although he is averaging less yards per carry than Forte did as a rookie, Langford has been more effective in the passing game than Forte was.
Of course, Forte was in Ron Turner’s system and had Kyle Orton as his quarterback so it is technically hard to compare the two players.
However, I believe that Langford has shown enough to be given the reins next year.
Forte has been a great back for a long time, but it will soon be time to hand over the torch to Langford as he looks to be the future of the Bears backfield.
I for one cannot wait to see what the future holds for this stud, how about you? Comment your thoughts below!
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