No Chicago Bears player heard more criticism early in the season than running back D'Andre Swift. After signing a hefty three-year, $24 million contract, Swift initially failed to live up to the billing.
This criticism was at its peak when Swift addressed fan's frustrations on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football."
Asked Bears RB D’Andre Swift if he heard the criticism over the first month of the season.
— Kyle Brandt (@KyleBrandt) October 4, 2024
“I have a phone.” @gmfb pic.twitter.com/KdtqoTrkAe
At one point, it looked like Swift's contract was going to end up being one of the most disappointing from this March's free agent frenzy. Not anymore.
Swift took off as the season went on and became one of the lone bright spots on an offensive unit that struggled to produce first downs all season. There were multiple times this season when Swift energized a struggling offense. In particular, his 56-yard score against the Washington Commanders is a perfect example of this.
Perhaps Swift's greatest contribution to the offense was being Caleb Williams' safety valve. In the receiving game, Swift caught 42 passes for 386 yards--solid stats. It's crucial a rookie quarterback has someone they can rely on for a check-down pass. When Williams needed him, Swift was almost always there in the check-down to gain yards after the catch.
At just 25, there's no doubt Swift is prepared to continue making a mark with the Bears as he begins the second year of his contract. There's no doubt Swift is a versatile playmaker the Bears want to keep around for their rebuild.
Bears fans were a little impatient during Swift's slow start. Sometimes, it takes a player a little bit of time to adjust to a new offense. Once the learning curve was over, Swift showed his worth.
In what can be hailed as the Year of the Running Back, Swift is among a group of running backs who were underpaid on their current team, signed a huge payday with a new team, and had a breakout year. Other backs include the Philadelphia Eagles MVP candidate Saquon Barkley, Baltimore Ravens power back Derrick Henry, and Green Bay Packers bell cow Josh Jacobs, to name a few.
Prior to joining the Bears, the Georgia alum spent three years with the Detroit Lions before earning a Pro Bowl nod in his first and only season with the Eagles.
It will be interesting to see how the Bears new coaching staff uses Swift next season.