There was a lot of hype surrounding the Bears’ 2021 rookie draft class, which featured first-round quarterback Justin Fields. But there were also some late-round selections that proved to be pleasant surprises for Chicago.
Running back Khalil Herbert, who was drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL draft, was one of those late-round hits for the Bears last season. Herbert wasn’t the starter — which wasn’t a surprise with David Montgomery leading the way. But he proved to be reliable for Chicago as a reserve running back and a valuable kick returner.
When Montgomery injured his knee in Week 4, Herbert stepped in as the workhorse back for the next four games, where he showed his potential to be a lead running back. Herbert rushed for at least 70 yards in each of those four games, including a 100-yard outing against the Buccaneers.
Herbert was also Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded rookie sixth-round pick from the 2021 season, earning a 78.8 grade. He beat out the likes of 49ers running back Elijah Mitchell and Chiefs offensive lineman Trey Smith.
Highest graded rookie sixth round picks from the 2021 season
🥇 Khalil Herbert: 78.8
🥈 Elijah Mitchell: 76.8
🥉 Trey Smith: 73.1 pic.twitter.com/VqAOecJCQm— PFF Draft (@PFF_College) February 24, 2022
Herbert saw limited action as a rookie, but he flashed enough to earn more opportunities in Year 2. New offensive coordinator Luke Getsy comes from the Packers, who had a 1-2 punch with Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon. Perhaps we could see some of the same with Montgomery and Herbert.
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