Bears GM Catechized Over Wrong Decision
Former Bears running back Tarik Cohen didn’t hold back on Instagram, making a pointed remark aimed at Bears General Manager Ryan Poles. Following David Montgomery‘s recent contract extension with the Detroit Lions, Cohen posted a cryptic message stating, “Any GM who would let bro walk is stupid AF.” This suggests that Cohen’s departure from Chicago may not have been entirely positive.
Tarik Cohen takes a shot at Ryan Poles pic.twitter.com/eUUzGEi3i9
— Harrison Graham (@HGrahamNFL) October 13, 2024
Former Bears RB Tarik Cohen Bashes Ryan Poles Over Past Decision
Do the Bears Regret Not Re-Signing David Montgomery?
The Bears selected David Montgomery in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, picking him 73rd overall. He became the team’s primary running back, surpassing 800 rushing yards in each of his four seasons. However, his time with the Bears ended on a disappointing note when he opted to sign with the Lions instead. While the Bears did make him a contract offer, the Lions presented a deal with better incentives and higher pay. In an interview series with the Lions, Montgomery mentioned that consistently losing with the Bears “sucked the fun” out of football for him.
Bears GM Catechized Over Wrong Decision
“That’s all I was used to. And it got to a point where it sucked the fun out of the game for me because I’m a competitor. I like to compete. That’s what football’s about. It’s so refreshing to be in a place where that’s appreciated.”
Unfortunately for Montgomery, he joined the Bears as they were starting a rebuild. Although he was a standout player on a struggling team, the emergence of versatile back Khalil Herbert led General Manager Ryan Poles to choose not to re-sign Montgomery.
David Montgomery Finding New Life With the Lions
David Montgomery has found new life in Detroit, where last season he achieved a career-high 13 touchdowns and exceeded 1,000 rushing yards, playing a crucial role in helping the Lions reach their first NFC Championship in over 30 years. In recognition of his contributions, the Lions rewarded him with a two-year, $18.25 million extension, including $10.5 million guaranteed.
Detroit’s coaching staff praised Montgomery’s influence, stating, “A lot of the things that we do in the room, and even in other people’s rooms, they do it because he does it. He sets the tone for practice and the way he finishes runs is impressive. You’ve seen it—most players might stop after 25 yards, but he keeps going for 50, 60, 70 yards.”
There’s no doubt that Montgomery has made a significant impact on the Lions’ franchise. This raises the question: did Ryan Poles make a mistake by letting him go?
Leave a Reply