Who Should I Start? Khalil Herbert or Bucky Irving

Tuesday, August 13, 2:58 PM

ESPN's Mike Clay believes that Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert could become available before the regular season begins. Herbert is currently a part of a logjam in Chicago's backfield alongside starter D'Andre Swift and change-of-pace back Roschon Johnson. With an expiring contract and without a clear future with the Bears, Herbert is a trade candidate this offseason or at the deadline later in the year. The 26-year-old former Virginia Tech standout and sixth-round pick demonstrated a decent level of explosiveness over 152 touches in 2023, producing 4.9 yards per touch across 12 appearances. Even in the case of an injury to Swift, Herbert would likely be a part of a timeshare with Johnson as well as pass-catching specialist Travis Homer.

Thursday, September 5, 7:43 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving looks to be set as the primary backup option to Rachaad White in the backfield. He won the competition against Sean Tucker in camp for the No. 2 role in this offense. Sadly for Irving, that No. 2 role probably isn't going to be too significant. The Bucs are likely going to lean on White as their lead back. Irving should help out on special teams and possibly see a handful of snaps as the change-of-pace back. However, there is unlikely to be enough carries for Irving to have viable value during the season opener. He's worth stashing in dynasty formats and deep leagues because if White goes down then Irving will be the next man up. Irving could carve out a bigger role for himself as the season goes on, but he remains a shaky option for the season opener against the Washington Commanders.