The Chicago Bears wrapped up their second preseason game. While the result does not matter, how the players with jobs on the line perform. So, even without Justin Fields, there were plenty of takeaways and storylines. What were the biggest notes?
5. Khalil Herbert is running away as the Chicago Bears lead back
Some of the biggest notes from this game were players who did not play. One of them was Khalil Herbert. He was healthy but was considered one of the key starters who needed to be rested after a strong week of practice. This is significant for Herbert because the early expectation was that he was going to be in a running back by committee.
However, as the preseason has gone, it has become apparent that either D'onta Foreman or Roschon Johnson will work as a backup to Herbert, who appears to be the main rusher. Herbert played all seven snaps with Justin Fields so far this preseason. When Fields left the field, Herbert left the field as well.
Meanwhile, neither Foreman nor Johnson has taken any snaps with the first-team offense in-game action. Johnson is moving up the depth chart, but he started at the very bottom, given his rookie status. For Foreman, it is pretty clear that he has not been able to catch Herbert. One key area is the passing game, and seeing Herbert take a reception all the way to the end zone had to make the coaching staff feel good.
Johnson may continue to ascend, but for at least the first month it is the Khalil Herbert show.