One of the biggest decisions that will be awaiting the Chicago Bears at the end of the 2026 season is the future of running back D'Andre Swift. The veteran playmaker is entering the final year of his contract and has a chance to be one of the most sought-after names to hit free agency at the position. There is an easy solution for Chicago, with the Bears needing to extend the veteran ahead of the 2026 season and erase any questions or pressure about the back's future.
While Kyle Monangai was impressive a season ago, the rookie greatly benefited from the presence of Swift. There simply isn't enough for the Bears to be confident moving forward without locking up the veteran playmaker. Swift is coming off a great season with 1,087 rushing yards on 4.9 yards per carry and nine touchdowns.
This isn't production, the Bears can easily replace with Swift, more than earning a bit of future security. For the Bears, the reason to go ahead with the re-signing is obvious, as the longer you wait, the more expensive the market will continue to become. Looking at potential cost, one comparison within the NFC stands out with the Dallas Cowboys and Javonte Williams.
Bears Cannot Afford to Continue to Wait on Possible D'Andre Swift Extension
Williams re-signed with Dallas on a three-year deal worth $24 million with $16 million in guarantees. This would be an ideal price and one the Bears should be actively offering to lock up their future at the position. Already, you have the luxury of Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, and Colston Loveland having years of team control ahead.
Adding in security for Swift would not only take away a clear concern for the playmaker but also keep your offensive core together for the foreseeable future. There simply isn't a downside with Chicago needing to lock up the back with waiting only increasing the chances of the playmaker being stolen in free agency or the price continuing to rise.
Swift is still only 27 and likely to have a handful of productive seasons remaining despite the position. With this in mind, the Bears need to aggressively pursue an extension with the idea of having their entire offensive core locked down and handing Williams and head coach Ben Johnson incredible stability.
Considering the injury risks of a physically demanding position, it is unlikely that Swift would turn down a reasonable offer that keeps the veteran locked in with a franchise expected to be Super Bowl contenders for years to come.
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