Cedric Benson is on a downward slide, I think he will be a very risky pick in the 2008 draft.

Benson was tabbed as the Bears running back of the future. They let Thomas Jones go to the Jets, and handed the starting role to Benson. He responded with under 700 rushing yards, 4 touchdowns and an injury that cost him 5 games.

In the draft this year, the Bears picked up Matt Forte, who should give Benson a run for the starting job. That’s assuming they don’t pick up another back between now and training camp, which I think is very likely. Add to the mix his recent arrest, and Benson becomes a back I would stay away from.

I would not touch Benson in the draft, unless he’s around in the 9th round, maybe not even then. I don’t see much upside for the guy. Keep an eye on the Bears running back situation leading up to the start of the season, maybe Benson will surprise us, but I don’t think so.

The Bears should take a flyer on someone like Alexander, or pick up a suddenly expendable Jordan from the Raiders rather than hang their hat on what they have.