Chicago Bears: Players who could surprise at rookie minicamp

Chicago Bears rookies who could surprise at minicamp: RB Khalil Herbert

The Bears are pretty set at running back after the draft. Of course, David Montgomery is going to take the majority of snaps and touches out of the backfield. Thankfully, Chicago gets Tarik Cohen back from injury this year and will be able to use him in a few different ways, including as a punt returner.

But, the team also now has Damien Williams, who can spell Montgomery as that prototypical backup type. The team’s top three backs are pretty set, so rookie sixth-rounder Khalil Herbert has his work cut out for him.

Fortunately for Herbert, he’s a pretty well-rounded running back. Many are already pegging him to come in and take over the kick return duties, where he excelled last year at Virginia Tech. But, he could also add tremendous value as a third-down back.

Everyone wanted to talk about his running ability along with his kick returning prowess, but Herbert is a strong pass blocker. He’s going to add a ton of value in this area for the Bears.

Herbert is the type of running back who will take advantage of the more physical drills in camp and that’s where he’s going to make his initial mark. The effort and strength are apparent, and over rookie minicamp, those are the two qualities that should come to the surface more than anything else.

The Bears want to establish an identity as a physical, tough football team that runs first. Herbert’s style fits that mold, and we’ll get to hear about it hopefully coming into play after this weekend.