The Dallas Cowboys’ training camp is in full gear, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make a key addition at running back. While Dallas already has multiple choices, Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert has emerged as a potential upgrade.
On July 28, Blogging the Boys blogger Dan Rogers discussed several running backs that Dallas could recruit. The 26-year-old could move because he is currently the third name on the Bears’ depth chart.
“After David Montgomery’s departure last year, Herbert was expected to be the workhorse, but he only played a part-time role. As the Bears’ third-string running back, his role may be reduced this season. Chicago signed free agent D’Andre Swift and second-year back Roschon Johnson. Herbert is in the final year of his rookie contract, so any trade would most likely be a one-year rental, but given that he is a year removed from leading all running backs with 5.7 yards per rush, a late-round draft pick wouldn’t be a bad investment,” Rogers said.
He may not be a superstar, but he has demonstrated that he can inject enthusiasm into an NFL offense like the Cowboys’.
Herbert begins his NFL career with the Bears.
Herbert was picked by Chicago in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL draft after playing college football at Kansas and Virginia Tech. Herbert did not arrive with high expectations, but he instantly offered Bears supporters cause to be optimistic.
According to Pro Football Reference, Herbert had 433 running yards in 2021. He has two touchdowns and averaged 4.2 yards per run as a rookie. While those numbers don’t stand out, the running back has laid the groundwork for a successful sophomore season.
In 2022, Herbert rushed for 731 yards and four touchdowns. The former Jayhawk averaged 5.7 yards per carry while starting only one game for Chicago.
Herbert regressed slightly in 2023, amassing 611 running yards and two touchdowns in 12 appearances. His average carry dipped to 4.6 yards per touch, which is still a respectable effort.
Cowboys RB Speaks on CeeDee Lamb’s Holdout
While the Cowboys could contemplate signing a running back, they must first address the CeeDee Lamb problem. Dallas’ top receiver is skipping training camp to pursue his next deal. While the situation is not ideal for everybody concerned, Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott maintains his composure.
“It’s really tough because you’ve been on the same side for the first three or four years, and now you’re kind of going against each other,” Elliott said on July 26, according to ESPN writer Todd Archer. “So, you need to have a little thick skin. There’s a little more stuff that comes with it, but at the end of the day, we all want the same thing.”
Lamb is coming off a record-setting season with 135 receptions for 1749 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. He is entering the final year of his rookie contract, which will pay him a $18 million salary in 2024.
