What the D'Andre Swift Signing Means for the Bears' Offense
The legal tampering window of free agency kicked off and the Bears wasted no time with one of the first big signings of the offseason. The Bears were rumored to be interested in a veteran running back this offseason, and it looks like DSwift was their guy.
This move all but ensures the departure of free agent running back D'Onta Foreman. Swift will join a running back group of Khalil Herbert, Roschon Johnson, and Travis Homer.
After David Montgomery left a year ago to sign with the rival Detroit Lions, Khalil Herbert looked to be the back of the future and step into the starting role. Herbert did start, but battled some injuries and didn't look as effective as he was when backing up Montgomery. With the Swift acquisition, Herbert can once again take on that change of pace role he looked so well in behind Montgomery.
Swift is coming off a career-year last season with 229 carries, 1,049 yards and 5 touchdowns. He also added 39 receptions for 214 yards and a touchdown. Swift is a true three-down back and will be utilized as such in new offensive Coordinator Shane Waldron's offense. Swift will add much-needed speed at the running back position for the Bears.
Adding an elite running back is always a good move when potentially bringing in a rookie quarterback. A group of Swift, Herbert, and Johnson will be one of the stronger units in the league and should help take some pressure off of presumed new QB Caleb Williams.
Swift will be an every-down type of guy and Herbert can provide well when Swift needs a break. Johnson will likely take on the short yardage and goal line opportunities as he excelled in those situations his rookie year.
Swift isn't the big splash at running that Saquon Barkley or Josh Jacobs would provide, but he is a Pro Bowl running back that is only 25 and has less than 600 carries to his name. The Bears are likely not done making moves on the offensive side of the ball, but this is quite the start.
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