Chicago Bears: Projecting rookie roles for the upcoming season

Khalil Herbert, RB – Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears selected Khalil Herbert in the fifth round, primarily for his return skills. This is not meant to understate his skill as a runner. He still has the potential to find his way into the Bears backfield, but right now he is behind David Montgomery, Tarik Cohen, and Damien Williams. He might get to see playing time if injuries strike, but for right now he is a special teamer.

The good thing about Herbert is that he is hungry. He wants to get his chance. We might not see him a lot this year, but if he can show that he belongs, he might be working his way up the depth chart in the coming years. Running back is a position that needs great depth due to frequent injuries. Having Herbert as your fourth running back is nothing to complain about.

Thomas Graham Jr., RB – Chicago Bears

I was a big fan of the selection of Thomas Graham Jr. as it addressed another need on the team. He is a versatile corner that probably should have gone higher. I am excited to see him compete for the starting slot cornerback position, and I expect to see a lot of Graham in his rookie year. Right now his role is mainly on special teams, but he will get more and more playing time as the year goes on.

Right now he is behind Jaylon Johnson, Desmond Trufant, Duke Shelley, and Kindle Vildor. With injuries or lackluster play, there could be plenty of room for Graham to see more snaps. The Bears are weaker at cornerback without Kyle Fuller, so if Graham can outplay some of the other guys he could move up to CB3 or even CB2 if he really shows out.