Herbert, a sixth-round draft pick of the Chicago Bears in 2021 saw a productive first few years as a backup running back and kick returner. Herbert went on to start 12 games in three-and-a-half years with the Bears before being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals for a seventh-round draft pick in the middle of the 2024 season. Herbert spent part of 2025 with the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad.
By signing Herbert to the practice squad, he looks to compete for possible playing time with rookie Jacardia Wright,who was just elevated to the active gameday roster last weekend, and potentially George Holani. This signing of Herbert could also be a potential hedge in case Zach Charbonnet’s injury (which sidelined him last weekend) is more serious than initially thought. It will be interesting to see if Herbert’s returner background will factor into any playing time as well. Of course, Tory Horton and Dareke Young starred in those roles last weekend.
The other news that comes out of this signing is the likely departure of seventh round draft pick, running back Damien Martinez. Though some expected Martinez to return to Seattle after being released from the practice squad last week, it looks like that will no longer be the case. After being passed on the depth chart by Wright and now with the signing of Herbert, Martinez looks to be the odd man out. Martinez may be reading the same tea leaves, as he was reported to be working out with the Indianapolis Colts today. If Martinez does end up leaving Seattle, he would be the first 2025 draft pick to leave the team. As for Herbert, time will tell if he will be able to get any playing time this week or this season.