Chicago Bears: Week 5 Offensive, Defensive and Rookie MVPs
By Evan Bruner
Rookie MVP: Khalil Herbert
It probably doesn’t make much sense to give offensive MVP to Justin Fields and not give him rookie honors, but there is another Bears rookie that deserves praise. The recent injury to David Montgomery has given running backs lower on the depth chart the opportunity to contribute, and Khalil Herbert took advantage of that in week five, with a team high 75 rushing yards.
Khalil Herbert gave a big boost to the Bears’ run game
Coming into the week, many fans were worried about how the offense would respond to losing their feature back. Montgomery had been the workhorse running back dating back to last season and was one of the most productive running backs in the league through four weeks. The combination of Damien Williams and Herbert accounted for 139 yards on the ground and played a pivotal role in helping the Bears control the game.
Khalil Herbert could get more reps in the coming weeks
It looks like Montgomery will be out for the next few games, so Herbert’s carries aren’t going anywhere for right now. In fact, after this Sunday, there should be a real question if Herbert should be moved ahead of Williams on the depth chart. Matt Nagy and Bill Lazor did a good job of using both players, but there is a chance one back could emerge as the clear starter while Montgomery continues to recover.
Next. 3 unheralded Bears who stepped up. dark
Additional winners
Special teams MVP Cairo Santos
As always, Cairo Santos was automatic for the Bears making both of his extra point and field goal attempts. Santos is now a perfect 12/12 on his kicking attempts on the season has been one of the most productive kickers in football, dating back to when Chicago signed him at the start of 2020.