Did a Career Year Do Enough to Define the Future of the Bears Backfield?
Despite a heartbreaking end, the Chicago Bears’ season was full of magic and strong performances. There are plenty of reasons to feel optimistic heading into the offseason. Staying competitive is not easy, though, and Chicago will need to find ways to overcome financial restrictions to make necessary improvements. That reality will create difficult conversations, and one of the clearest examples is running back D’Andre Swift.
Swift is a strong embodiment of the Bears’ season. Last year, he did not live up to the expectations many fans had when he was signed. He recorded 253 carries for 959 rushing yards and six touchdowns, which led to significant offseason discussion about his future with the team. Chicago ultimately decided to give him another chance, and that decision paid off. Swift posted one of the best seasons of his career, finishing with 223 carries for 1,087 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns. Those totals marked new career highs in both rushing yards and touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game with 34 receptions for 299 yards and a touchdown.
Swift was not the only running back to exceed expectations. Rookie Kyle Monangai emerged as one of the season’s biggest surprises. The seventh-round pick recorded 169 carries for 783 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Monangai’s power and physical running style paired well with Swift’s speed and agility. The two-back system proved highly effective, as Chicago averaged 144.5 rushing yards per game, the third-highest mark in the league.
When looking at this elite production, keeping the duo together seems like the logical choice. That has not stopped discussion about potential changes. Swift is entering the final year of his contract, and releasing him would save the team approximately seven million dollars. Monangai’s emergence not only provides Chicago with a cost-effective option, but it also reinforces how accessible running back talent can be. With several roster holes to address, any opportunity to create cap flexibility carries real value.
The possibility of moving on is not solely about saving money. Since last offseason, Chicago has been linked to several talented running backs. One name that has surfaced recently is Travis Etienne Jr., who is coming off a strong season in Jacksonville. The former first-round pick logged 260 carries for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns. He also remained productive as a receiver, finishing with 36 catches for 292 yards and six receiving touchdowns. Etienne’s skill set could translate well in Ben Johnson’s system and potentially elevate the offense further.
After such a productive season, parting ways with a key offensive contributor would be difficult. With clear needs on defense, it is also challenging to justify a major financial commitment at running back. There are alternatives available, including restructuring Swift’s contract or exploring an extension. An extension could reward his strong performance while keeping the offense intact. As the offseason approaches, one reality is clear. The Bears will evaluate every position group as they look for ways to improve and remain competitive.
