The Chicago Bears caught some heat from experts and media for their decision to pay running back D’Andre Swift in free agency. Most believe the best trend for NFL teams these days is not to pay a position that has a long track record of burning out quickly. Running backs don’t often stay productive beyond their 30th birthday. GM Ryan Poles didn’t care. He and head coach Matt Eberflus saw Swift as somebody who brought some critical missing elements to their backfield, namely his speed and pass-catching ability.
Still, if the Bears were going to pay somebody, why not shoot for big names like Josh Jacobs or Saquon Barkley? The simplest answer is those guys were more expensive and had more wear and tear on their bodies. Swift has spent most of his career as a part-time committee back. Last season was his first as the true #1 guy. So he’s far less worn down. It also helps that he is good. Execs, coaches, and scouts around the league told Jeremy Fowler of ESPN as much, making him an honorable mention among the league’s best backs.
D’Andre Swift, Chicago Bears: Swift revitalized his career in Philadelphia with 1,049 rushing yards and a Pro Bowl nod. “Had the soft label [in Detroit] but overcame that,” an NFL running backs coach said. “[He’s] really elusive in space, burst, really good speed. [He] does a nice job catching out of the backfield.”
That isn’t why the Bears brought him in. He won’t be required to carry the offense like previous running backs. Chicago wants to build their scheme around quarterback Caleb Williams. That means a pass-first approach that will require multiple targets capable of catching the football. As we’ve already stated, that is one of Swift’s strengths. He will be the perfect outlet if Williams can’t find any of his other targets. It is another reminder of how well thought out this entire depth chart is from Poles’ perspective. Everybody has a specific role in helping the machine work.
If D’Andre Swift can duplicate the season he had last year for Philadelphia, the Bears are in great shape. Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson should help him maintain the ground attack and help in blocking. His primary job is creating mismatches in the passing game. If he stays healthy, it should be a good year for him. It will be interesting to see how the Bears utilize his touches. Shane Waldron likely has different ideas about the running back position from Luke Getsy. Swift will have to stay flexible.
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