D'Andre Swift and the Bears' Running Back Room: A Fresh Start

As the Chicago Bears gear up for the 2025 NFL season, all eyes are on their running back room, led by D'Andre Swift. After a disappointing 2024 season, Swift and his teammates are determined to turn things around under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.

A Season of Frustration

Swift's 2024 season was marked by inconsistency. Despite signing a lucrative three-year, $24 million contract with the Bears, Swift managed only 959 rushing yards and five touchdowns. His yards per attempt (3.8) were the lowest of his career, and he crossed the 100-yard rushing threshold just once in 17 games. The Bears' rushing attack as a whole was lackluster, ranking 25th in the league with an average of 102 yards per game.

New Schemes, New Hope

Ben Johnson, who joined the Bears as offensive coordinator, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. During his tenure with the Detroit Lions, Johnson helped develop one of the league's most potent rushing attacks. In 2023 and 2024, the Lions ranked fifth and sixth in rushing, respectively, thanks to a balanced mix of outside zone runs, inside zone runs, and gap scheme runs.

Johnson's arrival has injected optimism into the Bears' running back room. "I know the perception out there is that maybe it's not the most talented room in the world," Johnson said. "They like to hear that noise."

Key Additions and Improvements

The Bears have made significant changes to their offensive line, adding guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson and center Drew Dalman. These additions are expected to provide Swift and his fellow running backs with better running lanes and more opportunities to shine.

Swift, who had a career-best season in 2023 with the Philadelphia Eagles, knows the importance of a strong offensive line. "I can't wait," Swift said, flashing a smile. "I'm excited."

Looking Ahead

With training camp underway, the Bears are focused on improving their run game and supporting their young quarterback, Caleb Williams. Swift and his teammates are determined to prove their critics wrong and make a significant impact in the 2025 season.

"Everything," Swift said when asked what he needs to improve. "All of us have something to work on, something to get better at. When team success is at a premium, everything else is going to fall in line."

As the Bears prepare for the upcoming season, the running back room is poised for a bounce-back year. With new schemes, improved personnel, and a renewed sense of purpose, D'Andre Swift and the Chicago Bears are ready to make their mark in the NFL.