Under-the-radar Chicago Bears players on offense to watch in 2024

I’ve waxed poetic about Herbert’s running mate Roschon Johnson much too much in our training camp previews, so it’s time to throw some praise in Herbert’s direction. The four-year vet had a rough 2023 campaign, failing to make any headway in the rushing attack until the last few games of the year, where he managed to finally gain some traction. His disappointing outing soured many fans on his potential as a player, and the arrival of Swift quickly made Herbert an afterthought in their minds. Well, it’s fair to write him off but I wouldn’t forget about him just yet, as there’s still a pool of potential that remains untapped in my estimation. 

Herbert will be a beneficiary of the same effect that Kmet will undergo, except even more amplified. As disappointing as the running back group was last year, former quarterback Justin Fields devastated opponents with his running ability, forcing defenses to keep their eyes in the backfield at all times. A big reason why the group suffered was because the extra attention Fields drew, especially with the passing game being such a footnote of the offense for the first eight games of 2023. Now though? Chicago is geared to put on an air show in 2024, with the previously mentioned skill players pulling attention away from the offensive backfield. Herbert is certain to see fewer defenders creeping up to the line of scrimmage, allowing him to do what he does best: running downhill and breaking tackles. 

Swift is bound to vulture some of Herbert’s workload, but the promising ball carrier is still in line to tout the ball 12 to 15 times a game, with a few swing passes coming his way. A comeback season could be in store for Herbert.