Bears Coach Calls Out RB D'Andre Swift Ahead of NFL Draft

During March 26's appearance on the Chicago Bears' official podcast, new running backs coach Eric Bienemy spoke about Swift's expected role in 2025 and challenged him to raise the bar after a relatively down season in 2024.

“Now, more than anything, we’ve gotta make sure that he understands that he can find four and a half [yards] between the tackles, but also hit the home run when he needs to,” Bieniemy said.

Swift averaged a career-low 3.8 yards per carry for the Bears in 2024 despite getting a career-high 253 carries. While the Bears' inconsistent offensive line and disjointed play-calling factored into his lack of success, he also had the fewest rushing yards over expected (-174) in the league, per Next Gen Stats.

A reconstructed line and a new offensive play-caller in Johnson could help Swift turn a corner in 2025, though — depending on what other talent they add.

Johnson's success with running back duo David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs in Detroit has given way to expectations that the Bears will look to supplement their backfield in the NFL draft this month, potentially even in the first round.

Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty has been a popular selection for the Bears at No. 10 overall in recent mock drafts, but Athlon Sports' Luke Easterling recently mocked the possibility of the Bears trading back in the first round and instead targeting North Carolina's Omarion Hampton at No. 18 overall.

The running back position is also considered one of the deepest in the 2025 class, giving the Bears options to add capable talent on Days 2 and 3 as well.

Regardless of how the Bears improve the room, Swift will need to prove to his new coaches that he can meet their expectations to keep his starting job.