As the 2024-25 NFL season approaches, the Chicago Bears are faced with the tough task of trimming their roster in order to make room for the influx of talent that has come their way. General Manager Ryan Poles has made it clear that no player is safe if they fail to meet the team’s standards, emphasizing that the NFL is a business above all else.
One player who may be on the chopping block is Khalil Herbert, who has risen through the ranks since being drafted in 2021. While Herbert has shown promise as a running back, his shortcomings as a blocker and receiver could make him expendable, especially with the addition of D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson to the backfield. It is rumored that Herbert could be traded to a team in need of a running back, such as the Dallas Cowboys, in exchange for a draft pick.
Another player under scrutiny is Velus Jones Jr., who has struggled to make an impact since being drafted in 2022. With new kickoff rules on the horizon, Jones may have a chance to prove himself as a kick returner and secure his spot on the roster. However, he will have to outperform DeAndre Carter and Dante Pettis to do so.
Dominique Robinson, despite a strong debut, has failed to maintain his momentum and could be at risk of being cut, especially with rookie Austin Booker vying for a spot on the team. Jaylon Jones, a solid contributor on special teams and defense, faces tough competition at cornerback, with Terell Smith, Josh Blackwell, and Greg Stroman Jr. all making strong cases for a roster spot.
Doug Kramer Jr., who missed the entire 2022 season due to injury, finds himself lower on the depth chart at center behind Ryan Bates and Coleman Shelton. With other reserves offering more versatility and experience, such as Ja’Tyre Carter and Matt Pryor, Kramer Jr. may need to look for opportunities elsewhere.
The Bears are faced with tough decisions as they prepare for the upcoming season, with several players fighting to prove their worth and secure a spot on the roster. Only time will tell who will make the final cut and who will be looking for a new team to call home. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds.
(Quotes from General Manager Ryan Poles, players, and sources)
