Injuries have hit the Chicago Bears hard over the past few weeks. The secondary is decimated with four starters currently out. Offensively, it's not much better. Left tackle Braxton Jones remains out with a neck problem. Teven Jenkins only just returned from a calf problem that cost him four games. Now the problems magnify further. Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that running back Khalil Herbert will miss the next few weeks with an ankle injury he suffered against the Washington Commanders.
Herbert's ankle got caught in the turf while trying to make a catch from Justin Fields in the second half. He tried to play through it but couldn't finish the game. The problems don't end there. Rookie Roschon Johnson also left the game early with a concussion, leaving Khari Blasingame as their only healthy back by the final whistle. Herbert was averaging 5.3 yards per carry this season and was a big part of their recent offensive explosion. This is a tough loss.
The Chicago Bears have some work to do.
The obvious first step will be activating D'Onta Foreman. He's been inactive over the past few weeks in an effort to get Johnson more work. With Herbert out of the picture, he will see significant action for the first time since opening day. Depending on Johnson's injury, it is also likely the Bears will seek outside help for the backfield. There are some intriguing veteran options. Former Jaguars back James Robinson remains available. He ran for 1,837 yards and 15 touchdowns between 2020 and 2021. Darrell Henderson is also out there. He has considerable experience in a wide-zone system from his time with the Los Angeles Rams.
The same goes for Tevin Coleman, who had success in the scheme with Atlanta and San Francisco. Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles is almost certain to make a move at some point early this coming week. Losing Herbert puts more pressure on quarterback Justin Fields moving forward. He's been excellent throwing the ball lately. A lot of that was helped by the ground attack. Hopefully, Johnson will return quickly. He and Foreman can be a solid tandem for the time being.
