The Chicago Bears have found success on the ground this season, and that has allowed them to take advantage on gameday. The offensive line is doing an outstanding job and has created massive holes for veteran running back D'Andre Swift to run behind.
And he's taken full advantage back there. Swift's performance throughout the first 13 weeks has made the Bears' decision very easy for next season, and that should be to have him return in 2026.
D’Andre Swift Must Return to Bears in 2026
Swift has been able to make an impact as both a ball carrier and a pass catcher out of the backfield. Following the Week 13 win over Philadelphia, he has gone over 1,000 scrimmage yards. The Athletic's Dan Wiederer posted that Swift is on pace to rush for 1,096 rushing yards with 4.8 yards per carry.
Not only is Swift productive, but rookie running back Kyle Monangai has taken full advantage of his opportunities. In the win over the Eagles, both guys finished with more than 100 rushing yards, which was last accomplished by Walter Payton and Matt Suhey for Chicago in 1985. Monangai now has two performances of 130-plus yards in the last five games, which is absurd for a Day 3 pick in their rookie year.
This RB duo has helped the Bears rank second in the NFL in rushing offense (153.8). Earlier in the season, there was chatter that Swift could be out of town following this season, but that should no longer be a consideration. He's still on the books for the 2026 season at $8.8 million. Chicago has an out following this season, per Spotrac, which would only cost the Bears $1.33 million in dead money if they wanted to release him, but his production in 2025 has seemingly put that at a standstill.
The Bears' success with the run is certainly eye-opening, especially as the weather gets colder. Chicago is leaning on the one-two punch of Swift and Monangai, and it's leading to a ton of wins. When you factor in the price tag, the offensive success, and the continuity that's continuing to be built, you can see why the Bears will likely keep Swift around for 2026 and potentially beyond.
Chicago has seen things drastically change in the first year of the Ben Johnson era. Having a stellar run game is something that he wants to have in his offense, and Swift has shown that he's capable of being a weapon there.
Five games are remaining on the regular season schedule, and as the Bears look to clinch a playoff spot, they'll lean on Swift to get them there. If he excels in the upcoming stretch, his future in the Windy City will all but certainly be secured.