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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Alyssa Barbieri

Bears’ Tarik Cohen explains why he didn’t play this season

While there were many storylines that dominated the Chicago Bears’ 2021 season, one that sort of flew under the radar was the status of running back Tarik Cohen.

Cohen was lost for the 2020 season after suffering a torn ACL during Week 3 against the Falcons. He was expected back in training camp, but started the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Unfortunately, he never came off it.

Now, there’s some concern about whether Cohen, who signed a three-year extension before his injury in 2020, will be ready to go for the 2022 season.

Cohen appeared on a Rally House Q&A, where he explained why he didn’t return this season after his recovery.

“I’m scared to come back a different player not the same when I was,” Cohen said. “I won’t let myself come back before I’m ready and before I feel I can put the same performances on that I was putting on before I got hurt.”

Cohen has been referred to as a “human joystick” for his dynamic playmaking ability on the field, be it on offense or as a punt returner. It’s something the Bears offense missed last season.

Assuming Cohen is ready to return to the lineup next season, he’ll join a running back room that features two studs in David Montgomery and Khalil Herbert, who are both coming off impressive seasons.

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