SIGN UP: Get the best player prop and game betting projections at BetAlytics. Use code "JUICE" for a special promo rate.
The hoopla, hysteria and general hype are unrivaled around the NFL Draft, where the usual pomp and circumstance is filled with stylish suits, neck-draped bling, main-stage struts, Roger Goodell bro hugs and lifelong dreams realized. However, selfish gamers only care about one thing — Where does the rookie rank in the fantasy pecking order?
Kyle Monangai, RB, Bears
Exercising possibly way too much patience, the Bears filled a giant area of need before the curtain fell on the 2025 NFL Draft, nabbing Monangai with the 233rd overall pick.
Chicago fans hope Monangai twists a similar path as fellow former Rutgers standout Isiah Pacheco, the Chiefs running back who was also selected in Round 7.
[ NFL Gamer's Guide: Fantasy forecasts and futures bets for 2025 season ]
Point blank: The 11th-hour grab of Monangai is an enormous get for new Bears head coach Ben Johnson. Monangai’s eagle-eyed vision, thick build (5-foot-9, 210 pounds) and punishing downhill style mesh nicely with Chicago’s newly implemented wide-zone scheme.
Got our Monangai 😤 pic.twitter.com/PGdSDI2dC4
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) April 26, 2025
No rusher at the FBS level last season ran more zone concepts than the bruising 22-year-old. On those scampers, Monangai amassed 66 missed tackles (No. 6 in FBS) and gained 862 yards after initial contact (RB8). Also excelling in pass protection and ball security, Monangai has the qualities to instantly impress.
With only D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson to overtake, the pride of Piscataway has a clear opportunity path. If he seizes the day in training camp, he could wind up garnering at least 10-12 touches per game while operating in a David Montgomery-like role behind a revamped offensive line.
Keep close tabs on Monangai’s development -- especially if the Bears don't invest in Nick Chubb or someone else via free agency.
Fearless Forecast: 180 rushing attempts, 821 rushing yards, 9 receptions, 54 receiving yards, 7 total touchdowns