Micah

Bernard

Bell was an intriguing receiving tight end in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Patriots also waived RB Micah Bernard, DT Philip Blidi, DB Isaiah Bolden, TE Cole Fotheringham, WR Phil Lutz, LB R.J. Moten, CB Jordan Polk, OG Tyrese Robinson, OG Sidy Sow, RB Shane Watts and QB Ben Wooldridge and released DT Kyle Peko, LB Monty Rice

Bernard (5'11/200) was one of three 100-yard rushers that Utah had on the day, as he enjoyed a hyper-efficient day on the ground that included 9.2 yards per carry and one touchdown. it was only the second time on the year that Bernard has gone for over 100 yards this season, as he now has a rushing line of 63/394/2 on the year, along with 18 receptions for 151 yards and one touchdown. Utah travels to Arizona to take on the Wildcats in Week 11.

Bernard (5'11/200) was joined by Tavion Thomas, TJ. Pledger and Chris Curry who all shared the dreaded “Or” as Utes HC Kyle Whittingham is attempting to shroud the running back competition in mystery as training camp ends. Bernard has been handling the majority of first-team work, but Tavion Thomas has been making noise in practice as a potential challenger for RB1 carries. Utah is slated to kickoff their 2021 against Weber State on September 1.

In the aftermath of the tragic death of Ty Jordan, Utah hit the transfer portal hard at the running back position. T.J. Pledger (Oklahoma) and Chris Curry (LSU) made the move to Salt Lake City, but it’s Bernard (5'11/200) who goes into the summer as the starter. A big reason for that has been his improved physicality as a ball-carrier. “Where I’ve seen his biggest growth is his physicality,” Ludwig told The Athletic. “You always knew he had great speed as a perimeter runner, but the way he’s running behind his pads right now and finishing runs with violence, it’s really a big step to becoming a complete back.” Pledger and Curry won’t lack for opportunities this fall, but Bernard managed to lock down the RB1 role by standing out in spring practice.

With the Utes adding two grad transfers in Chris Curry (LSU) and TJ Pledger (Oklahoma), it appeared that a more experienced option would have the first chance to fill the massive void left by the late Ty Jordan. But it’s a redshirt freshman who’s at the front of the line, as Bernard (5'11/200) heads into this weekend’s spring game firmly entrenched as the starter. The redshirt freshman appeared in all five of Utah’s games last season, rushing for 76 yards on 15 carries while also catching four passes for another 25 yards. Curry and Pledger will certainly be in the mix for reps but, heading into the conclusion of spring practice, Bernard is first up.