The first taste of the starting unit under Ben Johnson was an immediate success. After Caleb Williams led a nearly pitch-perfect drive to a touchdown, the second drive wasn’t as fruitful for the Bears. However, the scariest part came in the form of their running back, Deion Hankins.
An undrafted free agent signing this summer, Hankins was going to try to find a role in the offense under Johnson, with the preseason being a momentous stage for him. With Johnson preferring a dual running back setup, the youngster had a legitimate chance ot find a space on the roster. However, things are looking rather bleak for the Texas State alum after the game against the Buffalo Bills in Week 2 of the preseason.
What Happened to Deion Hankins?
Trying to complete a catch off of Williams on the left side of the field, Hankins was hit hard in the bank. Almost immediately, the youngster could be seen limping off the field towards the sidelines.
Courtney Cronin of ESPN immediately wrote on X, “Deion Hankins got hit hard from behind trying to adjust his body to a ball that came a little bit behind him. Britton Brown replaces him. Looks like Hankins was favoring his left leg as he hobbled off the field.”
Deion Hankins got hit hard from behind trying to adjust his body to a ball that came a little bit behind him. Britton Brown replaces him. Looks like Hankins was favoring his left leg as he hobbled off the field.
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) August 18, 2025
Leading the Detroit Lions to the best-ranked offense on PFSN’s Offense+ metric last year, Johnson made ample use of both Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery in the backfield. This year, the primary weapon for the Bears is D’Andre Swift, but the rest of the running back room could use upgrades.
As a result, Hankins had an outside shot to make his mark on the coaching staff and earn a roster spot, at the very least. Last week, against the Miami Dolphins in a 24-24 tie, he had seven carries for 23 yards, while adding a four-yard reception as well.
With Hankins’ injury, Kyle Monangai will likely start the season as the Bears’ RB2 behind Swift.
A six-year career at the collegiate level saw Hankins emerge as a solid player for UTEP and Texas State. In 2024, he rushed for 272 yards and two touchdowns on 62 carries after earning two Second-Team All-Conference USA selections at UTEP.
