Bears rookie RB Kyle Monangai embraces underdog role, pushing back on 7th-round label with toughness, confidence, and relentless work ethic.

When Kyle Monangai heard his name called late on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, emotions ran high—but not for the reasons most would expect. The former Rutgers standout had waited longer than anticipated to hear his name announced. While being drafted is a dream fulfilled, Monangai didn’t see himself as a typical seventh-round pick. And he’s made it clear to anyone watching training camp in Chicago: he plans to make the league pay for sleeping on him.

Monangai has arrived at Halas Hall with something to prove, and he’s doing it the only way he knows how—by running through anyone in his way.

A Physical Back with a Chip on His Shoulder

Monangai, listed at 5-foot-9 and 215 pounds, built his reputation at Rutgers as a punishing, downhill runner. Herushed for over 1,200 yards in his final collegiate season, adding 10 touchdowns and earning second-team All-Big Ten honors. But despite his production and toughness, he slid to the seventh round, prompting confusion among analysts and disappointment from the man himself.

“I’m not here to cry about where I was drafted,” Monangai told reporters at rookie minicamp. “But I’m not going to lie—it lit a fire in me. I know what I bring. And I plan on showing that every day.”

That fire has been evident from day one. Whether it’s taking reps with the second team or special teams units, Monangai has been relentless. Coaches have taken notice of his work ethic, physicality, and refusal to take a play off.

From Rutgers to the NFL: The Road Less Traveled

Monangai’s journey to the NFL didn’t follow the high-profile route of a blue-chip recruit or SEC highlight reel regular. His path was forged in grit.

At Rutgers, he spent his early years biding his time behind more experienced backs, learning the offense, improving his body, and developing the mental toughness required to succeed at the next level. When his opportunity came, he ran with it—literally. In his final two years, Monangai became the workhorse of the Scarlet Knights’ offense, known for his violent running style, ability to break tackles, and surprising burst through the line.

But even with the film and the production, draft experts cited concerns about his speed and lack of elite athletic testing numbers. Monangai doesn’t spend much time responding to the critiques.

“They said I wasn’t fast enough, not flashy enough. But the tape speaks for itself,” he said. “Put on the film. I move the chains. I wear defenses down. I break tackles. That’s what matters.”

Earning Respect at Halas Hall

Monangai may have been a late pick, but there’s nothing “developmental” about his attitude. From the first day of camp, he’s approached every drill like it’s a playoff game. Whether it’s blocking in pass protection, staying after practice for film study, or delivering a punishing stiff-arm in live reps, he’s demanding attention.

Head coach Ben Johnson has already praised the rookie’s toughness and attitude.

“Kyle’s a grinder,” Johnson said. “He runs angry. He plays like every rep matters, and that’s what we want. He’s not just here to make the roster—he’s here to compete.”

Veteran running backs on the roster, including Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson, have also acknowledged Monangai’s intensity.

“He reminds me of myself when I was trying to earn respect,” Johnson said. “He’s got that underdog mindset, but he’s backing it up with hard work.”

The Underdog Mentality: Fuel for the Grind

Being a seventh-round pick comes with its own set of stigmas. Players are often seen as long shots—camp bodies meant to provide depth. Monangai is pushing back on that label with every rep.

“I’m not here to wear a jersey and take pictures,” Monangai said. “I’m here to play. I’m here to help the Bears win. Whether that’s one carry or 20, special teams or goal-line—whatever they ask, I’m ready.”

That underdog mindset has helped him excel in areas often overlooked. His willingness to block, catch passes out of the backfield, and play on special teams increases his chances of making the final 53-man roster.

Running backs coach Thomas Brown echoed that sentiment.

“You want a guy who’s hungry. Kyle’s the first in the building and last out,” Brown said. “He’s smart. He’s coachable. And he’s not afraid to go head-up with anyone. That kind of toughness? That’s hard to teach.”

A Team Fit in Chicago’s Offensive Identity

The Bears’ offense under Ben Johnson is expected to be dynamic and balanced, with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams leading the charge. The team is building a scheme that thrives on versatility, tempo, and physicality—three traits Monangai fits perfectly.

His ability to run between the tackles, pick up blitzes, and keep the offense on schedule makes him a potential asset in short-yardage and red zone situations. In early team drills, Monangai has shown an ability to move the pile and finish runs with authority, something that’s drawn attention from both the coaching staff and fans.

“He’s a north-south runner, but he’s got good vision too,” said offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand. “We’re excited to see how he develops through camp.”

With the Bears looking to surround Williams with steady contributors who can support a young quarterback, Monangai could find a meaningful role early.

A Message to the DoubtersDespite being overlooked in the draft, Monangai’s confidence has never wavered.

“I know what I can do. I’ve done it my whole life. Just because some teams didn’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there,” he said. “And to every team that passed on me—thank you. You just made me more dangerous.”

It’s not said with arrogance, but with clarity. Monangai understands what it takes to stay in the league—and he’s determined to carve out a role not just on the Bears, but as a player who will rewrite the narrative around seventh-round picks.

The Bigger Picture: Representing More Than Himself

For Monangai, making it to the NFL isn’t just about personal glory. It’s about representing his family, his alma mater, and every overlooked athlete with dreams bigger than their draft grade.

“My mom and dad sacrificed a lot for me to be here,” Monangai said. “Every time I put on the helmet, I’m thinking about them. About Rutgers. About the journey.”

That gratitude and sense of purpose fuel his relentless approach. He knows the odds are long—but he’s been beating odds his entire life.

Every NFL season, there are rookies who break out, not because of where they were drafted, but because of what they bring to the field every day. Kyle Monangai is quickly becoming one of those players to watch.

With a chip on his shoulder, a heart full of drive, and a game built on toughness, Monangai is not just trying to make the team—he’s trying to make a statement.

Don’t let the draft position fool you. Kyle Monangai has always run harder when the deck was stacked against him. And if training camp is any indication, the Bears may have found one of the steals of the 2025 draft.