50 Facts About Khalil Herbert

Early Life and Education

Khalil Herbert's journey to the NFL began in Atlanta, Georgia, where he was born and raised. His early years were marked by a strong passion for football.

1. Khalil Herbert was born on December 17, 1997, in Atlanta, Georgia.
2. He attended Peachtree Ridge High School in Suwanee, Georgia.
3. At Peachtree Ridge, Herbert played football and quickly became a standout running back.

College Career

Herbert's college career at Virginia Tech showcased his talent and set the stage for his professional journey.

4. Herbert attended Virginia Tech, playing for the Virginia Tech Hokies.
5. During his time at Virginia Tech, he was a key player in the team's offense.
6. He recorded 158 carries for 3 touchdowns and 158 rushing yards per game on average.

NFL Draft and Rookie Season

Herbert's entry into the NFL came with its own set of challenges and opportunities.

7. In the 2021 NFL Draft, Herbert was selected by the Chicago Bears in the sixth round (217th overall).
8. His rookie season was marked by significant challenges, starting as the fourth running back on the depth chart.
9. An injury to David Montgomery in Week 4 provided Herbert with an opportunity to showcase his skills.

Breakout Performance

Herbert's breakout performance during his rookie season was a turning point in his career.

10. During the four weeks Montgomery was out, Herbert averaged 13.45 PPR points per game.
11. Despite returning to a backup role, his snap percentage continued to increase.
12. Herbert's efficiency metrics in 2022 were impressive, demonstrating high efficiency in EPA per rush and rush yards over expected (RYOE).

Injury Impact and Resilience

Herbert's ability to perform well despite injuries has been a testament to his resilience.

13. Herbert's value was enhanced by his ability to perform well despite injuries.
14. His efficiency remained high even when playing with limited snaps or facing tough defensive opponents.
15. Herbert faced a hip strain in 2022 that kept him out for four weeks, yet he consistently showed resilience and quick recovery.

Contract Year and Market Trends

As Herbert approaches the final year of his rookie contract, the stakes are higher.

16. As of the 2024 season, Herbert is in his final year of his rookie contract.
17. The running back market has seen significant changes, with players like D'Andre Swift and Saquon Barkley receiving substantial guaranteed money.
18. This trend has heightened the competition for Herbert and other running backs.

Competition at Halas Hall

The Chicago Bears have seen significant changes in their running back corps, increasing competition.

19. The Bears added D'Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson, pushing Herbert to work harder.
20. Herbert stands at 5'9" and weighs 212 lbs, making him agile and quick on the field.
21. As of the 2024 season, Herbert is listed behind D'Andre Swift on the unofficial depth chart.

Professional Statistics and Career Milestones

Herbert's professional statistics and career milestones highlight his contributions to the Bears.

22. As of the 2024 season, Herbert has accumulated 1,791 rushing yards on 372 carries with nine touchdowns.
23. He played in every game of the 2021 season with two starts.
24. Herbert recorded 433 rushing yards on 103 carries and two touchdowns throughout the 2021 season.

Game Stats Analysis

Analyzing Herbert's game stats provides insight into his performance and versatility.

25. In games against the New England Patriots in 2022, Herbert had 12 rushes for 62 yards and one reception for 25 yards.
26. His snap percentage has varied significantly, averaging around 40% of snaps per game in 2022.
27. Herbert's fantasy football value has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts.

Fantasy Football Value

Herbert's performance in fantasy football leagues has made him a valuable asset.

28. His ability to perform well in limited snaps makes him valuable in fantasy leagues.
29. Herbert had a 30.90 PPR point performance in Week Three of the 2022 season.
30. His fantasy football profile includes a scouting report highlighting his efficiency metrics and game stats.

Offseason Training and Positive Outlook

Herbert's offseason training and positive outlook reflect his dedication to improvement.

31. Herbert has been actively training during the offseason, focusing on his body type and skill position.
32. He believes that this training will help him adapt to the changing rules and competition in the league.
33. Despite changes at Halas Hall and around the league, Herbert remains positive about his opportunities.

Leadership Role and Market Trends Impact

Herbert's leadership role within the team and the impact of market trends are significant.

34. As one of the last remaining players from the Bears' 2021 running back core, Herbert has taken on a leadership role.
35. The uptick in guaranteed money for running backs has created a more competitive market.
36. This trend has forced Herbert to work harder and prove himself worthy of a significant contract extension.

New Rules and Regulations

The NFL's new rules and regulations have presented challenges for Herbert.

37. The NFL has introduced new rules and regulations, including changes in kickoff rules.
38. Herbert has acknowledged that it has been challenging to digest these changes.
39. He remains committed to learning and adapting to these new rules.

Preseason Performance and Depth Chart Positioning

Herbert's preseason performance and depth chart positioning reflect his readiness for the upcoming season.

40. Heading into the first preseason game in 2023, Herbert was listed as the first-string running back.
41. He also served as the second-string kickoff returner, demonstrating his versatility.
42. As of the 2024 season, Herbert shares the third running back designation with Roschon Johnson.

Kickoff Returner Role and Schedule Difficulty

Herbert's role as a kickoff returner and the Bears' challenging schedule are noteworthy.

43. Herbert was initially taken off the kickoff returner role, with Velus Jones Jr. and DeAndre Carter taking over.
44. The Bears' schedule for the 2024 season includes several challenging games.
45. Herbert will face tough defensive opponents, which could impact his performance and snap count.

Game Stats Projection and Career Highs

Herbert's game stats projection and career highs highlight his potential for the upcoming season.

46. In Week 10 of the 2024 season, Herbert is projected to face the New England Patriots.
47. His game stats projection includes 2 rushing attempts, 2 receptions, and 5.40/71.40 yards per reception.
48. Herbert achieved a career-high 132 carries in the 2023 season.

Training Philosophy and Competition at Position

Herbert's training philosophy and the competition at his position are crucial to his success.

49. The Bears' coaching staff emphasizes training all body types and skill positions.
50. The running back position is highly competitive, with several talented players vying for snaps.

Khalil Herbert: A Rising Star

Khalil Herbert's journey from Peachtree Ridge High School to the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. His time at Virginia Tech set the stage for his professional career, where he quickly made a name for himself with the Chicago Bears. Despite starting as the fourth running back, Herbert seized his opportunity when injuries struck, showcasing his talent and resilience. His efficiency metrics, leadership role, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a valuable asset to the Bears. As he enters the final year of his rookie contract, the competition is fierce, but Herbert's determination and skill set him apart. Whether it's his breakout performances, fantasy football value, or leadership on the field, Herbert continues to prove his worth. Keep an eye on this rising star; he's just getting started.