Running back D'Andre Swift's first season with the Chicago Bears did not go according to plan in 2024, but last year was a better indication of what kind of starter he can be.
In Swift's 2024 campaign, he rushed for 959 yards and six touchdowns, but averaged a career-low 3.8 yards per carry. Last season was completely different for Swift, as he hit career highs in rushing yards (1,087) and rushing touchdowns (nine), while averaging 4.9 yards per carry.
That has helped his image with the media and his standing as one of the league's top backs. Lombardi Avenue's Sayre Bedinger ranked all the NFC North starting running backs entering 2026, and while Swift wasn't at the top, he ranked third ahead of Minnesota Vikings' Jordan Mason, but behind Green Bay Packers' Josh Jacobs at two and Detroit Lions' Jahmyr Gibbs at one.
"Swift is clearly a tier or two below some of his peers around the league at the position in terms of overall impact, but after finishing 12th in the league in rushing yards last season and 18th in yards from scrimmage, his reputation is growing in a very positive way."
D'Andre Swift is starting to get some good attention around him
Over the years, Swift has always been a good running back, but most of the time he seemed more like a part of a one-two punch than a featured back. While he plays that role well, the media has not looked at his capabilities as an RB1 on a team.
Bears running back Kyle Monangai ended up being featured in the offense more often than expected last year, but that didn't stop Swift from proving he can be the leading man. Swift's speed helped him collect more yards, and having Monangai do the dirty work on short yardage also contributed to Swift's success in 2025.
Nothing should change in 2026 too much, but the rushing yards might take a hit with Swift since Monangai might get slightly more carries. The focus will be on the yards per carry that Swift gets. As long as he averages more than 4.5 yards per carry, that means the Bears' offense should still be moving the ball well.
One thing to watch out for is the changes to the Bears' offensive line from the offseason. They have a new starting left tackle and center that could drastically affect the rushing attack after finishing third in rushing yards last year.
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No matter what changes occur, Swift has the momentum from last year and can use it to his advantage. His future in Chicago might be in question, but there's no doubt that he will be a starter for a long time, with everyone noticing him now.
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