Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles has significantly upgraded the team’s roster talent. However, these new additions could jeopardize the positions of some veterans, such as running back Khalil Herbert.
Herbert, drafted in the sixth round out of Virginia Tech in 2021, quickly made an impact. During his rookie season, he was initially behind veterans David Montgomery and Damien Williams on the depth chart but ended the season as the No. 2 running back.
In 2022, Herbert remained Montgomery’s backup, demonstrating increased explosiveness with 731 yards on 129 carries, compared to Montgomery’s 801 yards on 201 carries.
Impressed by Herbert’s performance, the Bears allowed Montgomery to leave in free agency, selecting Roschon Johnson in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft and signing veteran D’Onta Foreman.
Though Herbert appeared poised to take the starting role, he missed five games and his production declined. As this year’s training camp approaches, his roster spot is uncertain. Adam Jahns of The Athletic suggests Herbert might be on the chopping block, especially with his contract year approaching and the team drafting Johnson and signing D’Andre Swift.
In 2024, Johnson’s role is expected to expand, and the Bears do not seem to view Herbert as a primary starter, as evidenced by Swift’s multi-year contract and prominent role in the offseason.
Considering the depth chart, Herbert’s path to securing a roster spot is unclear. Khari Blasingame and Travis Homer contribute significantly to special teams, and while Herbert has return experience, undrafted rookie Ian Wheeler could also be a contender in that role.
It is unlikely the Bears will keep all six running backs, with four or five being more probable, putting Herbert’s position at risk.
