Bears running back Armando Allen saved his best for last.
Competing with Lorenzo Booker to be the third running back, Allen had game-highs in receiving and rushing yards against the Cleveland Browns.
Booker asserted himself with 15 carries for 81 yards. But, after Booker left the game to check on a head injury, Allen finished strong with a 49-yard run in the waning minutes to seal the Bears’ 28-20 win. Allen finished the game with 16 carries for 83 yards and five catches for 51 yards, including an 11-yard touchdown. On that play, Allen showcased his versatility, lining up as a receiver and running a slant pattern.
“I don’t know what the deal was with Lorenzo,” Allen said. “At the end of the day, the only thing I can do is focus on what I have to do when my number is called.
“So that was my main focus… I feel that I did everything that I could to help our team to win as that was the most important thing for us.”
Allen, though, did more. He also forced a fumble in the fourth quarter on a punt. Punter Ryan Quigley recovered the ball at the Bears’ 46-yard line.
“Overall, special teams is big for a number three guy,” Allen said, “and for this game, it was very, very important to get that fumble. I am just happy that I was able to go out there and make a play.”
Booker was not available for comment after the game.
Money may or may not be a factor. The Bears shed Kahlil Bell, who was the third running back last season, because he was due to make nearly $1.3 million. Booker, meanwhile, would make $700,000, while Allen is slated to make $390,000.
