4 fantasy football waiver wire replacements for Lions running back D’Andre Swift
2. Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears
David Montgomery left Week 3 against the Houston Texans early with knee and ankle issues, and he did not return. Early indications from the team are positive, as they would naturally tend to be pending more testing. But the Bears’ No. 1 back could miss some time, and Herbert stepped in nicely against Houston (20 carries for 157 yards, two touchdowns; two catches for 12 yards).
Even if Montgomery does not miss any games, Herbert is making a strong case for more playing time.
Herbert had 18 or more carries in four straight games as a rookie last season, when Montgomery was out. He cleared 70 yards on the ground in all four, with 10 targets over the last three (nine catches total). He was a top-20 fantasy running back over that stretch (Week 5-8).
The Bears’ focus on the running game could make Montgomery and Herbert both fantasy relevant in what could become a closer timeshare. And in any games where Montgomery is out and Herbert is the clear No. 1 back, he is building a track record of production in that role.
Even as a bench stash if it comes to be that Montgomery won’t miss Week 4 etc., Herbert is a top add off the fantasy waiver wire this week–if you’re a Swift owner or not.
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