Hours before the NFL’s trade deadline goes into effect, the Bengals traded for a player mid-season for the third time in franchise history. Herbert is in the midst of a down season after being buried on the depth chart since Chicago signed D’Andre Swift this offseason and drafted Roschon Johnson a year ago. Herbert averaged over 50 rushing yards per game and 4.5 yards per carry in each of his last two seasons. However, he’s relegated to third-string running back this season, seeing just eight rushing attempts in six games. Herbert’s rookie contract expires at the end of this season, so it’s an opportunity for the former sixth-round pick to secure a second contract.

This was a timely move to ensure stability for Cincinnati’s running back room. Recent reports indicate veteran Zack Moss will be away from the team for a significant portion of the season. Moss and Chase Brown are the only two running backs on Cincinnati’s roster with a rushing attempt this season. Herbert’s shown flashes in the past and figures to become a key part of the rotation sooner than later. He projects as a complimentary RB2 behind Brown, who will continue seeing 12-15 rushing attempts each week with a few more opportunities in the receiving game. The Bengals face off against the Ravens on Thursday night, though it’s unclear whether Herbert will be active for this contest.

Written by @TreyK_FB (Twitter/X)