While fantasy managers chase household names in drafts, a Chicago Bears running back going undrafted in 97.2% of drafts, according to PFSN’s Fantasy Football Mock Draft Simulator, could emerge as one of the season’s biggest steals.
Roschon Johnson’s draft status remains unknown, yet his growing role in what promises to be an explosive Bears offense under head coach Ben Johnson is notable.
Goal-Line Dominance Points to Touchdown Upside
The numbers tell a compelling story about Johnson’s red zone efficiency versus the Bears’ presumed starter. Johnson converted six of seven goal-to-go carries into touchdowns last season, an 85.7% success rate that dwarfed D’Andre Swift’s disappointing three scores on 16 such opportunities. That production becomes even more impressive when considering Johnson’s six goal-line touchdowns matched the totals of established fantasy contributors Jonathan Taylor and Chase Brown, despite those players receiving 22 opportunities each in similar situations.
Recent reports suggest Johnson “feels like a lock to be the short-yardage/goal-line back again this year,” cementing his role as the Bears’ primary option when games are decided near the end zone. This specialization alone provides weekly touchdown upside that many higher-drafted backs lack.
Third-Down Role Expands Fantasy Ceiling
Johnson’s value extends beyond goal-line work, with indications that he’ll handle third-down duties in the Bears offense. While not an elite pass catcher, he has proven reliable when targeted, hauling in 50 of 60 career targets for an 83.3% catch rate across two seasons.
This efficiency becomes crucial in Ben Johnson’s offense, expected to operate with increased tempo and creativity. His track record of maximizing lesser-known skill players suggests he’ll find ways to utilize the running back’s strengths, particularly in protection situations where the running back stays on the field for potential checkdowns.
Every Roschon Johnson rush + target from Year 2 pic.twitter.com/KR2vyR1Cmw
— Jacob Gibbs (@jagibbs_23) July 2, 2025
The combination of goal-line work and third-down snaps creates a path to standalone flex value, especially if the Bears’ offense lives up to expectations with Caleb Williams under center. Johnson won’t threaten for workhorse touches, but his specialized roles offer weekly scoring opportunities that many bench players don’t possess. Additionally, Johnson has injury-contingent upside in the event Swift goes down. He is the rare combination of potential standalone value with upside.
For fantasy managers willing to stash a late-round flier, Johnson represents the type of role-specific player who can outperform his draft cost. His 97.2% undrafted rate won’t last once managers recognize his touchdown-dependent upside in one of the league’s most promising offenses.
