Chicago Bears: 5 hot takes on Allen Robinson, Khalil Herbert and more

Chicago Bears Hot Take No. 2: Khalil Herbert should remain a big part of the offense

Should Khalil Herbert maintain a large role in the offense once David Montgomery returns? 

It might have only been one start, but I’ve already seen enough from Khalil Herbert to believe he is a better running back than both Damien Williams and Tarik Cohen. Herbert ran for 97 yards and a touchdown on over five yards per carry in the first start of his NFL career and was one of the few bright spots on the Bears’ offense against Green Bay. Even in his limited action, Herbert has shown his ability to make defenders miss and great burst off the line of scrimmage.

What will Khalil Herbert’s role be once Tarik Cohen and Damien Williams come back? 

Herbert came into the season as the expected fourth running back on the depth chart, but with Tarik Cohen being behind schedule in his recovery from ACL surgery and David Montgomery and Damien Williams missing time as well, Herbert was catapulted to the top of the depth chart.

Although Herbert has done well in his limited workload, we don’t know what will happen once the other three running backs return. Montgomery will obviously be the featured back, but I truly believe having Hebert as the second running back on the depth chart is what’s best for the offense.

Khalil Herbert could thrive in a limited role

Herbert runs as hard as any back I’ve seen. He has great initial burst and does a good job of breaking open big runs when they are there. Giving Herbert a handful of carries a game would give him an opportunity to break off a big run and still allow Montgomery to be the workhorse. Herbert’s running style contrasts nicely with Montgomery and could add something to the offense

Bottom line 

With how much the Bears have relied on their run game to get the offense going this year, they are going to need more than just Montgomery in the backfield. I think Herbert would make a great secondary back.