The Chicago Bears have officially parted ways with running back Khalil Herbert.
According to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, the Bears traded Herbert to the Cincinnati Bengals on Tuesday morning in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2025 draft.
This trade bolsters the Bengals’ backfield after the recent neck injury sidelined Zack Moss. Herbert is expected to compete with second-year back Chase Brown for playing time and contribute depth to Cincinnati’s offensive lineup.
For the Bears, the trade offers a return on a player who no longer aligned with their future plans.
Herbert, originally a sixth-round pick by Chicago in 2021 and an Oregon alum, accumulated 1,175 rushing yards and scored eight touchdowns over three seasons. However, in 2024, his performance dwindled to just 16 rushing yards and one touchdown on eight carries, leading to his diminished role.
The Bears now plan to rely on second-year back Roschon Johnson to support D’Andre Swift, who has solidified his spot as the team’s lead rusher.
This move is part of general manager Ryan Poles’ ongoing efforts to revamp the team and phase out the remnants of former GM Ryan Pace’s tenure. Poles previously made a similar decision by letting David Montgomery sign with the Detroit Lions in free agency, where he has flourished for the NFC North leaders.
The Bears will be hoping that Herbert doesn’t enjoy a breakout season alongside Joe Burrow, while their own offense struggles to find its rhythm.
