Backup Running Back: Herbert vs Johnson
© Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Many feel that Khalil Herbert will be the main backup for D’Andre Swift. Swift signed a big three-year contract so he is the starter. Who plays immediately behind him will be very important.
Swift has dealt with some injuries in his career. Having a quality backup who can take a chunk of the snaps to keep him fresh is important. Many feel that Herbert, who has experience as a starter, is the man for the job. However, there could be a surprise at training camp.
Roschon Johnson has a shot at winning the job. He is in his second season. Yes, he had an up-and-down rookie campaign. However, that was mostly due to his dealing with a concussion. Furthermore, Herbert is in the final year of his rookie deal. He will be looking for a big bump in pay.
Herbert is an explosive runner. He can get into the scrum, and just when you think he is going down, he suddenly takes off and makes a big gain. He has great balance and body control to bounce off would-be tackles and then take off.
In his career, Herbert averages 4.9 yards per carry. That is nearly a full yard more than the league average of four yards per carry. He took over as starter last season after David Montgomery departed for the Detroit Lions. He and Swift could complement each other and keep each other healthy throughout the season.
On the other hand, Johnson could do more. He went largely unnoticed at the University of Texas because he was backing up Bijan Robinson. However, Johnson can do it all on the field. He is a strong runner, able to take the big hits and keep going. Also, he can catch passes out of the backfield effectively. Finally, he is a good blocker. He will get in there and make a big block.
The blocking ability will be crucial. The Chicago Bears have rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. He needs all the protection he can get. If someone breaks through the offensive line’s grasp, Johnson can step up and put the boom on him. He could stop the pass rusher in his track.
The pass-catching and blocking are things that Herbert has yet to master. The Chicago Bears could pull a surprise and give the job to Johnson and possibly trade Herbert. The third running back will not see as many snaps. If he does, that means there was an injury somewhere. The Chicago Bears have other backs on the team who can serve as the RB3.
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