Evaluating the Bears' RB Depth Chart: Summer Review

No surprise here, but D'Andre Swift is the Bears lead back entering the 2025 season. Despite many doubting Swift's ability, especially in Ben Johnson's offense given their history, the Georgia product is coming off a strong first season in Chicago. Swift ran for 959 yards and six touchdowns while snagging 42 receptions for 386 yards. His 1,345 yards from scrimmage were the most of his career. 

This season, Swift should have plenty of opportunities to once again be a big-play threat. He shouldn't be asked to run between the tackles all the time, but when he is it will be behind a much better offensive line in 2025. The group in 2024 was constantly changing with all the injuries up front, but injecting Drew Dalman, Joe Thuney, and Jonah Jackson into the mix should only help Swift's totals. 

RB2: Kyle Monangai

Now, there is certainly an argument for Roschon Johnson being the RB2 on the depth chart, but given some reports throughout OTAs, Kyle Monangai has been getting some time with the first team. 

Monangai may have been a seventh-round pick, but he was one of many talented RBs in a deep class. He's a value at his draft position, and has characteristics that the Bears should be able to utilize. Notably, he's a willing pass blocker, physical runner, and almost gives off "really poor man's David Montgomery" vibes. 

Monangai ran a 4.60 40-yard dash and posted incredible numbers at Rutgers. He ran for 3,221 yards and 27 touchdowns over 52 games (35 starts) in his career. He also ranks second all-time for program rushing yards and owns the record for most touches without a fumble. He's reliable with the ball, has some burst and nasty to him, and can easily compliment Swift from the jump. 

RB3: Roschon Johnson

Perhaps the most interesting player in the room, Roschon Johnson could have a resurgence under Ben Johnson. His concussion history is certainly an alarming concern, but he has the power to become a Jamaal Williams-like player under Johnson. Fans may recall, Williams posted 1,066 yards on 262 carries while scoring a league-leading 17 touchdowns on the ground in his magical season with Johnson. Williams received a lot of short-yardage work in 2022, and Johnson could certainly see the same in 2025. 

Monangai and Swift could see time in short yardage, so we're not insinuating that Johnson will receive 1,000-yard-production level work. However, he could see some respectable touchdown numbers, as he did in 2024 with his six touchdown to just 55 attempts. 

RB4: Ian Wheeler

The Howard product was a preseason and Hard Knocks darling before a season-ending knee injury ended his 2024 season before it started. However, the Bears kept him around on injured reserve, showcasing their belief in his speed and skillset. 

The former undrafted free agent will have to earn his keep during training camp and the preseason entering the 2025 season, but he is certainly liked by the front office. A new coaching staff has to be equally as impressed, but fans got a taste of what Wheeler has to offer in the backfield. Perhaps Wheeler is the biggest dark horse in the backfield as of now. 

What's On Tap Next?

Once camp cuts occur later this year, the Bears could certainly add another running back if he elect not to make a trade. However, as things stand today, it appears the Bears feel ok with Swift, Monangai, and Johnson serving as the primary group. We'll see what Wheeler brings, but the overall state of the position will leave some fans and analysts asking questions. 

DJ Moore could certainly see carries this season, as could a player like Rome Odunze. When it is said and done, the Bears won't make a huge splash at the position until next season in either free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft. Book it.