The Chicago Bears caught a bit of attention over the last week for managing for D'Andre Swift so carefully. Even with Kyle Monangai dealing with an injury the Bears still handed Roschon Johnson 13 carries with Swift getting only 16 in a game where the Bears could've easily leaned on Swift to grind out the clock and keep control of the game understanding that Atlanta's offense had zero answers early and it was simply a game of running out the clock.
When offensive coordinator Press Taylor was questioned about Swift's usage, the coordinator provided a thoughtful answer. An answer that hints at how Chicago is approaching Swift's carries throughout the rest of the season, understanding the ultimate goal and the need to keep the back healthy deep into the 2026 season.
"I think a little bit is I think there's a mindfulness to preserve him a little bit. It's a long season. Just aware of D'Andre and how he's been throughout the course and how invaluable he is for us throughout the course of the season. And there's an opportunity .... obviously Roschon unfortunately had a fumble in the fourth quarter there, but we felt like Roschon was really contributing pretty well for us in a number of aspects. He showed up in the pass game quite a bit, had some good carries, some good runs. Obviously, we've got to eliminate the turnover itself, but Roschon was rolling pretty good there too, so we felt comfortable rolling with him in there as well. And Swifty was ready to go if we needed it. So no, there's nothing really too much beyond that"Press Taylor
The main point Taylor is making is pointing to the impact of Swift and the understanding that this is going to be needed down the stretch of the season. Having a healthy Swift in January is going to be incredibly impactful and provide the needed balance for Caleb Williams to not be facing a relentless pass rush. As much as Taylor is being careful watching his language when it comes to talking future expectations the message he is getting across is undeniable.
For Swift, it has be comforting as well that despite already signing an extension the Bears are still focused on protecting wear and tear. It could easily be viewed as Chicago has the back under contract and the backup plan of Monangai putting a heavy workload on the back to protect Williams and not fully tip Johnson's playbook.
Bears making a wise decision protecting D'Andre Swift understanding need for January balance
Swift has been solid so far in the 2026 season offering 398 rushing yards averaging over four yards a carry with six touchdowns on the season. It has been an incredibly solid start that deserves to be graded on a curve understanding the increase in degree of difficulty. Caleb Williams missing extended time alongside Swift's running mate Monangai has unquestionably made things tougher.
Opting to protect the back rather than force carries is the only way the responsible coaching staf of Ben Johnson should be approaching the situation. With that said, it will be interesting to watch how the carries are divided and whether or not Swift is given additional rest.
Regardless of their decision, there is no question that the mindset continues to be one of this being a Super Bowl team.
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