Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert has been given permission to pursue a trade, with potential landing spots including the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, and Kansas City Chiefs.
Herbert, a sixth-round pick in 2021 from Virginia Tech, initially impressed in his rookie season with 433 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He continued to build on this momentum, rushing for 731 yards in 2022 and 611 yards in 2023 under head coach Matt Eberflus. However, Herbert’s final season with the Bears hasn’t gone as planned; now behind free agent D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson, he’s recorded only eight carries for 16 yards and a touchdown in six appearances. It’s now apparent that he isn’t part of Chicago’s future plans, prompting the Bears to allow him to seek other opportunities.
Several teams might consider acquiring Herbert, even if he doesn’t command a high trade price. The Dallas Cowboys, at 3-4, are most likely to show interest as they seek to improve their playoff chances. Head coach Mike McCarthy faces mounting pressure, and owner Jerry Jones hinted at the need for more talent, especially given Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb’s recent extensions. Adding Herbert as a late-round trade pick could provide much-needed support to a backfield that has been underwhelming with Rico Dowdle and an aging Ezekiel Elliott.
The New Orleans Saints, while committed to Alvin Kamara, could also benefit from a reliable backup to ease Kamara’s workload. Head coach Dennis Allen remains optimistic about a playoff run, and general manager Mickey Loomis has shown interest in adding depth to the roster. Herbert could bring added support behind Kamara, as other options like Jamaal Williams and Kendre Miller have struggled to make an impact.
The Kansas City Chiefs could also be a potential fit for Herbert. With Isiah Pacheco sidelined, the Chiefs have leaned on veteran Kareem Hunt, whose performance has been inconsistent. While Pacheco’s return is expected, Kansas City could benefit from another reliable running back to bolster their depth, as Herbert’s versatility would complement the aging Hunt and provide a stronger backup option.
