Chicago Bears’ Khalil Herbert Placed on Injured Reserve After Ankle Injury
By Courtney Cronin, ESPN Staff Writer
LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Chicago Bears have been dealt a blow as running back Khalil Herbert was placed on injured reserve on Friday. Herbert sustained an ankle injury during the Bears’ game against the Washington Commanders last Thursday.
Herbert, who has been the Bears’ leading rusher this season with 272 yards, suffered the injury while catching a pass from quarterback Justin Fields in the third quarter. His right leg twisted awkwardly as he planted his foot on the grass field. However, Herbert was able to leave the game under his own power. After a quick visit to the medial tent, he was seen running up and down the sideline before briefly reentering the game.
During Chicago’s week of preparations for the Minnesota Vikings, Herbert did not participate in practice. However, he will be eligible to return before the Bears’ Week 10 matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
With Herbert’s absence, the Bears’ backfield options have diminished. The team will now rely on tailbacks D’Onta Foreman, Darrynton Evans, who was recently signed from the Miami Dolphins’ practice squad, and fullback Khari Blasingame. Rookies Roschon Johnson and Travis Homer, who sustained injuries against Washington, did not practice this week and have been ruled out for the Vikings game.
In addition to Herbert, wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown was also placed on injured reserve. To fill the gaps in the roster, the Bears signed quarterback Nathan Peterman off the practice squad. This leaves a vacant spot on the 53-man roster, which is expected to be filled by cornerback Kyler Gordon, who is set to return to practice after a four-week stint on injured reserve.
Gordon underwent hand surgery after the game against the Green Bay Packers and has been gradually increasing his participation in practice throughout the week. Coach Matt Eberflus expressed his excitement about Gordon’s progress and highlighted the importance of his role as the team’s nickel corner.
“He’s looked good,” said Eberflus. “We’re excited where he is. Obviously that nickel spot is a big spot for us and he’s done a good job with that. He’s a real positive guy so it’s always great to have his energy out there as well. He certainly brings that passion.”
The Bears will need to make adjustments to their game plan as they face a depleted backfield without Khalil Herbert and several other injured players. The team’s depth will be tested as they strive to maintain their momentum in the coming weeks.