Chicago Bears secret weapon in 2026 could prove to be future starter next year

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Chicago Bears secret weapon in 2026 could prove to be future starter next year

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Robin Adams | Last updated May 18, 2026 11:03 AM ET

The Chicago Bears have had to address some sudden departures on offense this off-season. When center Drew Dalman decided to retire, they went out and acquired Garrett Bradbury to replace him. While that particular loss was unexpected, their trade of DJ Moore was an intentional one. Indeed, Chicago made that deal to create more opportunities for the younger wide receivers on their roster.

As OTA’s are set to begin soon, it appears that, at least on paper, the Bears have their offense all but set. However, like all good teams, they also have an eye up looking down the road. With this in mind, it will be interesting to see how Kyle Monangai performs this year after a stellar rookie season in 2025.

Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai named team’s secret weapon

Last year, the Bears selected Monangai in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He emerged as Chicago’s backup behind starter D’Andre Swift, and Bleacher Report believes he is the team’s future at the position:

“D’Andre Swift is the Chicago Bears’ RB1. Kyle Monangai proved last year that he has lead back potential, too.

“Monangai ranked third among all rookies last season with 783 rushing yards. The seventh-rounder’s 4.6 yards per carry ranked second among all first-year backs with at least 150 carries. He’s a natural runner, particularly between the tackles. The Rutgers product has some wiggle and brings a lot of physicality.

“Swift is entering a contract year and may not be with Chicago next season. It wouldn’t be the first time Ben Johnson built an offense around Swift only to go in another direction. Buy stock in Monangai early, because he could very well be the Bears’ RB1 in 2027.”

As mentioned above, Monangai rushed for 763 yards last year and scored five touchdowns. He proved to be a capable contributor in Ben Johnson’s offense, and could emerge as their starting running back in 2027 once Swift hits free agency.

This would be a huge development for Chicago, who would have the luxury, then, of not having to use a high draft pick on a running back in a stacked 2027 class.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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