A recurring theme from training camp thus far for the Bears has been the emergence of the 2022 rookie class. A 6th round running back out of Baylor named Trestan Ebner is no exception. While Ebner is ‘stuck’ in a stacked running back room with multi-year starter David Montgomery, 2nd year breakout Khalil Herbert, and free agent signing Darrynton Evans, Ebners’ shown that he has the potential to play a large role in this team for the long term.
A player comparable to Ebner is the one and only Tarik Cohen. While Ebner lacks the speed and acceleration of Cohen, he makes up for with his superior hands and pure running ability. While a solid backfield running back, he excels in the pass game. In the 2021-2022 season, Ebner averaged 10 yards per catch with 2 touchdowns through the air. It is not far-fetched to think Ebner can play a hybrid role in the offense, splitting time in the slot and out the back field this idea being more realistic as the receiving room begins to thin.
Despite his offensive ability, his strong suit is elsewhere – in the return game. While at Baylor, Ebner was a 2-time Big 12 Special Teams player of the year. Ebner’s combined kick and punt return stats over five years accumulated to 1,377 yards and 4 touchdowns on just 75 attempts. His explosiveness in the return game could greatly benefit the Bears, as they have struggled since the departure of Cordarrelle Patterson.
Ebner has developed a relationship with Justin Fields. Fields has matured and learned to use the check down when necessary, providing Ebner opportunities to get yards after catch. Ebner has had multiple 20+ yard touchdowns from these opportunities, catching the eyes of the media at camp.
In the initial depth chart, Ebner was lined up as RB3 and KR4. This is of course subject to change, and he is going to get plenty of chances during the preseason to move up. The potential is there, and it will be exciting to see what plays he can make to prove he can play a role.
