Khalil Herbert

A sixth-round pick last year, Herbert used Tarik Cohen's absence as a springboard to a roster spot, and when David Montgomery got hurt as well, the rookie emerged as a capable lead back. After getting only nine offensive snaps through the first four games, Herbert piled up 344 rushing yards and a touchdown in a four-week stretch in the season's second month, but then didn't see more than four carries in a game once Montgomery was healthy again. Herbert is a compact, powerful runner with patience and burst, and he was adequate as a pass catcher when given the opportunity. Chicago added center Lucas Patrick to a mediocre offensive line this offseason, which should help the running game, but the biggest change comes in the form of a new coaching staff. Matt Eberflus replaces Matt Nagy as head coach, and new offensive coordinator Luke Getsy comes from a Packers system that emphasized a committee approach to the backfield over having a bell cow. That could result in more touches for Herbert alongside Montgomery, rather than having to wait for an injury, but it's the development of Justin Fields that will determine how many of those are high-value opportunities. Read Past Outlooks