After an incredibly hot start to the 2026 season, the Chicago Bears have watched the production from D'Andre Swift dip. Over the last two games Swift has been unable to average three yards per carry, while still proving his clear value managing to score three touchdowns over the course of the last two games. Still, there is no debate that Swift isn't living up to expectations when it comes to consistent production and being able to take pressure off Caleb Williams and the passing attack.
While this is a clear strong point for the Bears, there is still a want for balance to shorten games and control the clock. Luckily Chicago has an offensive change coming as Kyle Monangai is getting ready to make his return after the bye week and is unquestionably going to has a positive impact on Swift. Having the punishing and explosive run style back in the lineup helps soften up the defense.
Swift is clearly a completely different back when Monangai is in the lineup and the duo is able to work off each other. What will be interesting to watch is whether Monangai has any hangover from the time off or is back fully to himself against New Orleans.
For the Bears, it is incredibly important to be able to lean on the run game down the stretch of the season in a heated NFC North race. The balance allows Williams a better chance to stay healthy and not take the hits he does when forced to stay in the pocket.
Bears have every reason to believe D'Andre Swift's slump is over with Monangai's return
Last season was undeniable proof of how well the duo works together when healthy and why the Bears could argue it is the best rushing duo in the league. Getting back to this level of production is very much on the table when you consider that the franchise has all of the weapons and quarterback to demand respect in the passing attack.
Putting it simply, there is every reason for fans to expect Swift to return to form the moment Monangai is back in the lineup. The ability to stay fresher and offering the Bears a clear scoring threat will complete the offense and give the balance the franchise is so badly missing.
It will be interesting to watch how heavily the Bears lean on Monangai early on and the changes it had in Ben Johnson's offense. No question, one of these will be seeing Swift put up more consistent numbers and offer a higher level of production.
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