Chicago Bears announced the signing of 27‑year‑old running back Ahmed on May 21, 2026, a move highlighted in today’s NFL Injury Report as teams scramble to add depth before training camp opens. The veteran arrives fresh from a year‑long rehab after a hip‑drop tackle sidelined him for the entire 2025 season.<\/p>
Chicago Bears have a history of digging deep into the free‑agent pool for low‑risk, high‑reward pieces, and Ahmed fits that mold. The numbers reveal he averaged 4.2 yards per carry in limited action with the Colts before the injury, and film shows his burst through the line was among the league’s top for backs under 6 feet tall. By securing him on a veteran minimum, the front office brass keeps cap flexibility while adding a change‑of‑pace option behind starter Jordan Howard.<\/p>
What does Ahmed’s recent history tell us?
Ahmed’s career trajectory stalled after a promising 2021 season in which he logged 54 carries for 149 yards and 12 receptions for 117 yards. He posted modest numbers the following two years – 12 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown in 2022, then 22 carries for 61 yards and a score in 2023, plus 16 catches for 88 yards. After signing with Indianapolis in 2025, the August hip‑drop tackle prevented him from ever suiting up for the Colts.<\/p>
Key details of the Bears’ acquisition
According to The Sporting News, the Bears framed the deal as “pretty much no risk,” indicating a likely veteran‑minimum contract that keeps cap space flexible. Ahmed’s ankle has reportedly healed, and he has been “working hard to get back,” suggesting he will be ready for preseason drills. The signing adds depth behind Howard and offers a red‑zone option in goal‑line situations.<\/p>
Key Developments
- Ahmed’s injury occurred in August 2025 during a Colts practice, ending his season before he could play a snap.
- The Bears announced the signing via an X post from the team’s director of player personnel, highlighting the low financial commitment.
- Ahmed’s career‑high in touchdowns came in 2022 when he scored once on 12 carries.
Impact and what’s next for Chicago
Ahmed provides a veteran backup to Jordan Howard and offers a red‑zone option. The numbers reveal his yards‑after‑contact rate was 3.1 in limited snaps, a useful metric for short‑yardage scenarios. Bears coaches will likely integrate him into special‑teams units while monitoring his snap count in training camp. Fantasy owners may view Ahmed as a late‑season handcuff if Howard sees reduced snaps or suffers injury.<\/p>
What exactly is a hip‑drop tackle?
A hip‑drop tackle involves a defender dropping his hips low and driving forward with a shoulder or forearm, often targeting the ball carrier’s lower body. The technique can cause severe ankle or knee injuries, as seen in Ahmed’s case.
When did Ahmed’s injury happen and how long was he out?
The injury occurred in August 2025 during a Colts practice. He missed the entire 2025 season and was unable to suit up for Indianapolis before being released.
How does this signing affect the Bears’ running back depth?
Ahmed provides a veteran backup to Jordan Howard and offers a red‑zone option. His experience gives the Bears flexibility to rotate backs and protect Howard from overuse, potentially improving the team’s late‑game rushing efficiency.
