Jordan Howard Trade Rumors: 'Multiple' Teams Approached Bears About RB

Jordan Howard may be wearing a new uniform in the 2019 season.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, "Multiple teams approached the Chicago Bears at the combine last week and discussed a potential trade" for Howard, with "discussions ongoing."

Howard, 24, had an up-and-down season for the Bears in 2018, rushing 250 times for 935 yards and nine touchdowns. His 3.7 yards-per-carry were a career low, and the continued emergence of Tarik Cohen in Chicago's backfield—he had 99 carries for 444 yards and three touchdowns along with 71 receptions for 725 yards and another five scores—ate into some of his overall touches. 

In the process, Howard earned a grade of 70.2 from Pro Football Focus, putting him 37th amongst running backs. Not a bad mark, but less than expected after Howard rushed for over 1,100 yards in each of his first two seasons. 

The question is whether the Bears will find a trade market for Howard that makes dealing him worthwhile:

For teams looking for a between-the-tackles grinder who can get the tough yards by the goal line, adding Howard would make sense for the right price. But at this point in his career, Howard is best served in a platoon with a quicker, better-receiving running back. 

Those type of players, as noted above, can generally be found in the draft. Howard's production at the pro level might be more appealing for playoff contenders than an unproven rookie, but not to the point that giving up major assets to land him makes much sense.