Tarik Cohen, a former Chicago Bears running back, faced a setback in his NFL comeback bid when the Carolina Panthers released him. Cohen, 28, was trying to revive his career after injuries derailed his promising start. His last game was in 2020, when he tore his ACL and MCL and fractured his leg.
Drafted in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft from North Carolina A&T, Cohen drew comparisons to Darren Sproles for his small stature and speed. Standing at 5 feet 6 inches and 181 pounds, he was seen as a dynamic dual-threat player and return specialist.
Cohen’s impact was immediate in his rookie season, rushing for 370 yards and catching 53 passes for four touchdowns, including one on a punt return. In 2018, he was named First-Team All-Pro and made the Pro Bowl, accumulating over 1,100 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns, leading the league in punt return yards.
The Bears signed Cohen to a three-year extension worth $17.25 million in 2020, but his season ended early due to injuries. He missed the entire 2021 season recovering. After being released by the Bears in 2022, Cohen suffered a torn Achilles tendon in 2023, further delaying his return.
Despite announcing his health in 2023, Cohen remained on the Panthers’ practice squad, and his comeback was interrupted again by a hamstring injury. The Panthers released him in 2024. It’s uncertain if another team will give him a chance before the 2024 season starts. Cohen will turn 29 in July.
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