When the Chicago Bears signed D’Andre Swift during the offseason, it wasn’t just another transaction. It was a calculated signal to the rest of the NFL that Chicago’s long-neglected rushing attack is about to reemerge with purpose and fury. For years, the Bears have been known for a gritty defense and unpredictable quarterback play, but the running game—once the crown jewel of the franchise’s identity with legends like Walter Payton and Matt Forte—has lacked the spark and versatility to complement their evolving offensive schemes. Now, Swift is stepping into the spotlight with a clear mission: to become the engine of the offense and reinvigorate a backfield yearning for explosive production.
D’Andre Swift’s career thus far has been a blend of promise, flashes of brilliance, and injuries that have occasionally muted his potential. Drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Swift brought with him a dual-threat capability rarely seen in young running backs. His ability to run between the tackles, bounce to the outside, and catch passes out of the backfield immediately gave Detroit fans hope that they had found a centerpiece for their offense. And in many ways, he delivered—when healthy. But the inconsistency of touches, combined with nagging injuries and a change in offensive philosophy under new coaching staffs, left Swift with the feeling that his full potential was never fully unlocked in Detroit or even during his stint with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Chicago believes they can be the team to unleash it.
The Bears’ backfield has been in flux in recent years. David Montgomery was a fan favorite and a hard-nosed runner, but his departure left a noticeable void. Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson have shown flashes, but neither has seized the mantle of a true feature back. Enter D’Andre Swift, whose skill set brings a different dimension. Swift isn’t just a runner—he’s a playmaker. He’s someone who can line up in the slot, catch a screen pass, and turn a short gain into a highlight-reel touchdown. And under new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, that versatility is no longer a luxury; it’s a requirement.
The Bears’ offensive playbook is evolving rapidly under Waldron’s guidance. Known for his creative schemes in Seattle and a heavy reliance on motion, misdirection, and quick passes to stretch the field horizontally, Waldron is expected to deploy Swift in a variety of roles. Swift will likely see time as both a traditional running back and a hybrid slot receiver, putting stress on opposing linebackers and defensive coordinators who must decide whether to cover him with speed or size—neither of which offers a true solution.
What makes Swift’s arrival particularly timely is the situation surrounding quarterback Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and the projected starter from Week 1. Rookie quarterbacks typically need a strong running game to lean on, especially early in the season. Swift’s presence not only offers a reliable outlet for short-yardage gains and screen passes, but also opens up play-action possibilities that can simplify reads and create clean throwing windows for Williams. In many ways, Swift is the safety valve and the spark plug for a new era of Bears football.
But it isn’t just scheme that will determine Swift’s impact—it’s health. Throughout his career, availability has been the biggest question mark surrounding Swift’s ceiling. He’s missed time in every season since entering the league and has yet to put together a full 17-game campaign. This offseason, however, Swift has made it clear that durability has been a point of emphasis. From diet changes to an intensified offseason conditioning program focused on core strength and lower-body flexibility, Swift has attacked this opportunity with a sense of urgency.
Bears insiders have noted that Swift arrived at OTAs looking noticeably leaner and faster. His footwork in positional drills has drawn praise from teammates and coaches alike, with running backs coach Jennifer King describing Swift’s movements as “surgical.” King, who joined the Bears coaching staff in 2025 after a successful tenure with Washington, is expected to play a pivotal role in maximizing Swift’s potential. She has a history of elevating the performance of multi-dimensional backs and has publicly emphasized her intention to feature Swift as a “central pillar” of the offensive scheme.
Team chemistry is another area where Swift is already making waves. Despite being new to the team, Swift has quickly taken on a leadership role within the running back room. His film study habits, attention to detail in walkthroughs, and vocal presence in meetings have reportedly earned the respect of veterans and rookies alike. According to teammates, Swift’s experience and hunger to prove himself have helped elevate the standard across the board. He’s not just here to perform—he’s here to transform.
For the Bears, the stakes are high. The 2025 season represents a critical turning point for the franchise. With a new coaching staff, a rookie quarterback, and a fanbase hungry for relevance, the margin for error is thin. But the upside is equally immense. If Swift can stay healthy and perform at the level the Bears are hoping for, Chicago’s offense could become one of the most balanced and dangerous in the league. And that’s not just speculation—it’s supported by data.
When healthy, Swift has ranked among the league leaders in yards after contact and missed tackles forced per carry. His receiving numbers are even more impressive; in 2022, he posted a receiving grade that placed him among the top five running backs in the NFL, per Pro Football Focus. Those numbers reflect a rare ability to impact the game in multiple phases, something the Bears have sorely lacked since the days of Matt Forte.
Moreover, Swift’s addition could have ripple effects throughout the roster. A more productive and dynamic rushing attack can keep defenses honest, creating more one-on-one opportunities for the Bears’ emerging receiving corps, led by DJ Moore and rookie standout Rome Odunze. It also takes pressure off a young offensive line that is still developing its identity. A reliable running game can neutralize pass rushes and shorten games, giving the Bears defense a chance to rest and stay aggressive.
All of this hinges on Swift becoming not just a contributor, but a cornerstone. He knows it. The coaching staff knows it. And fans are starting to feel it. There’s a certain electricity that follows players who arrive at a crossroads with everything to prove and the tools to do it. Swift isn’t just trying to have a good season—he’s trying to redefine his narrative. He wants to show that he’s not merely a talented back with flashes of potential, but a complete player capable of carrying the load for a franchise hungry for identity and success.
There’s also the matter of contract implications. Swift is on a short-term deal, making 2025 a prove-it year in every sense. A strong season could result in a lucrative extension with the Bears or a sizable offer from another team in free agency. But that’s not where his focus is right now. For Swift, this season is about seizing the moment. About honoring the legacy of great Bears running backs before him. And most importantly, about showing that when given the right opportunity, the right scheme, and the right motivation, he can be one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the NFL.
As the Bears continue their training camp and prepare for the preseason slate, all eyes will be on number 0. Swift knows the expectations. He welcomes them. He’s not shying away from the pressure—he’s leaning into it. With a rejuvenated body, a revitalized mindset, and a tailor-made role in an ambitious offense, D’Andre Swift is poised to take the league by storm. And if he succeeds, he won’t just lead the resurgence of the Bears’ backfield—he may very well spark the rebirth of an entire franchise.
