Chicago Bears

Bears HC Fox: Jeremy Langford is a 'dual-purpose' running back

Published Nov. 10, 2015 10:44 a.m. ET

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Jeremy Langford's production was balanced in his first outing as the Chicago Bears' featured running back. The fourth-round rookie out of Michigan State rushed for 72 yards and recorded 70 receiving yards during Chicago's 22-19 win over the San Diego Chargers on Monday night.

Bears head coach John Fox credited Langford for his versatility after the game, via Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune.

"He's dual purpose," Fox said. "He can catch. The (31-yard) catch he made on the wheel route, wide receivers have a tough time with that catch. He's explosive. He can take short runs into longer runs. And I thought he had a great night."

Without starting running back Matt Forte (knee) in the lineup, Chicago's offense was expected to struggle against the Chargers. Instead, the Bears enjoyed one of their most productive outings of the year.

A lot of that offensive success came straight from Langford, who handled more than 20 offensive touches and produced more than 140 yards from scrimmage on Monday night. He appears to have what it takes to keep the team afloat until Forte can make a healthy return.