Coleman Bennett, a running back who recently concluded his tenure with the Chicago Bears, has been actively pursuing new opportunities within the National Football League, participating in a workout session with the Tennessee Titans. This development follows his release from the Bears' roster earlier in the week, signaling his ongoing quest to establish a professional football career.
According to official NFL transaction reports from August 19, the Tennessee Titans hosted Coleman Bennett for a workout. This session was part of a larger evaluation, including five other athletes: one additional running back and four linebackers, as the Titans continue their rebuilding efforts to strengthen their team. Bennett, an undrafted player from Kennesaw State, had previously joined the Bears in the spring and spent the offseason program and the initial weeks of training camp with the team. He was competing for a backup running back position behind established players like D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai.
During his brief stint with the Bears, Bennett managed to score a touchdown in limited play during a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. However, despite this momentary success, he was subsequently placed on waivers just two days later. The Titans, after the workout, opted to sign veteran running back D'Ernest Johnson, who was also part of the workout group, to their 90-man roster. While Bennett did not secure a contract immediately, the Titans may consider him for a practice squad spot in the coming weeks, keeping his potential on their radar.
Bennett's journey with the Bears highlighted the intense competition for roster spots, particularly for the third-string running back role. Despite an impressive final season at Kennesaw State in 2025, where he amassed over 1,000 scrimmage yards, and a quick 4.25-second shuttle time at his Pro Day, the demands of the NFL, especially concerning special teams contributions and pass blocking, proved challenging. Bears head coach Ben Johnson emphasized that these aspects would be critical in deciding backup roles. Given Bennett's collegiate background, his experience in these specific areas against top-tier competition was limited, a factor that likely influenced the team's decision.
The Bears currently have Roschon Johnson, a 2023 fourth-round pick, as the frontrunner for the RB3 position. Other contenders include Salvon Ahmed and Brittain Brown, who are vying for a spot before the 53-man roster cutdown deadline. For Bennett, a breakthrough as an undrafted free agent with the Bears ultimately did not materialize.
Looking ahead, the Bears will use their remaining preseason games to evaluate their current running back options. However, if a clear third-string running back does not emerge, the team may explore external options. Analysts have suggested that the Pittsburgh Steelers might release Kaleb Johnson, an Iowa running back, who could be a project player of interest to the Bears. Additionally, several experienced running backs, including former Los Angeles Chargers star Austin Ekeler, Nick Chubb, and Antonio Gibson, are currently available in free agency, offering further possibilities for Chicago to bolster its backfield before Week 1.
Coleman Bennett's recent workout with the Tennessee Titans represents a new chapter in his bid to secure a position in the NFL. Despite being released by the Chicago Bears, his talent has garnered attention from other teams, indicating that his professional football journey may continue. The Titans' decision to sign another player from the workout group, while not directly benefiting Bennett with an immediate contract, leaves open the possibility for a future practice squad opportunity, reflecting the fluid nature of NFL roster dynamics.
