Ryan Poles Still Hasn't Learned From Inexcusable David Montgomery Mistake

The Chicago Bears revamped their running back rotation over the last two years and have a talented group with D'Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, and Khalil Herbert. However, that unit hasn't been able to find success so far, averaging 3.7 yards per carry and ranking near the bottom in terms of total rushing yards.

After playing a much larger role in his first three seasons in Chicago, Herbert has seen his role reduced this year, not getting a touch in the last three games. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, trade rumors have naturally emerged.

Surprisingly, however, it was reported earlier in the week that the Bears have turned down a trade offer from the Vikings for Herbert.

Perhaps this was more about not wanting to trade Herbert to a division rival. At the same time, it is looking increasingly more likely that the talented rusher will stay in Chicago past the trade deadline.

This obviously brings back painful memories for Bears fans. By keeping Herbert, you are risking him walking in free agency. A similar process played out with David Montgomery in the 2023 offseason when he signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Lions.

Since then, Montgomery has been playing the best football of his career, recording 1,366 yards and scoring 19 touchdowns in 19 games in Detroit. He just signed a two-year extension worth $18.25 million that will keep him in Detroit through the 2027 season.

Herbert has shown that he can be a valuable playmaker in the NFL. While it's understandable that he fell out of favor in this rotation, it would be organizational malpractice to not at least get something in return for him.

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