Chicago Bears
· 2026-07-03
# Chicago Bears aim to improve their running back room after ranking 18th, with D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai poised to boost the ground attack in 2026.
The Sharp Football staff placed Chicago at 18th out of 32 teams, a drop from 27th last season. Despite finishing third in total rushing yards (2,345) in 2025, the duo of Swift (1,087 yards) and Monangai (783 yards) couldn’t lift the overall ranking. Their combined 1,870 yards were eclipsed by only two other backfields, the Rams and Lions. The Bears also logged just 463 receiving yards and a single touchdown through the air, exposing a one‑dimensional run game.
Johnson has promised a heavier emphasis on the run in 2026, trusting the O‑line’s All‑Pro talent—left guard Joe Thuney and right tackle Darnell Wright—to open lanes. New center Garrett Bradbury will anchor the line, while veteran right guard Jonah Jackson continues his high‑level play. The coach expects Swift to become a more reliable pass‑catcher and hopes Monangai can add to his 4.6 yards per carry with better route running.
As of July 3, 2026, the Bears sit 8th in the NFC with a 9‑8 record and are riding a five‑game winning streak. The momentum suggests the revamped ground attack could sustain the run‑heavy approach and keep Chicago competitive in a tough division.
The next test arrives on September 13, 2026, when Chicago travels to face the Carolina Panthers. A strong performance could cement Swift’s role as a dual‑threat back and give Monangai the confidence to push past the 800‑yard mark again. Success in that matchup may also validate Johnson’s belief that a solid rushing foundation can drive the Bears deeper into the playoffs.
The glaring weakness remains the passing game. Swift and Monangai combined for only 52 receptions last season, a figure that needs to rise dramatically to keep defenses honest. Adding a reliable third option in the backfield or integrating more screen passes could boost those numbers. If the Bears can turn their run game into a balanced attack, the 18th‑place ranking will look like a footnote rather than a forecast.
With two All‑Pros already on the line, the unit appears capable of handling increased workload. However, injuries or fatigue could expose depth concerns, especially at the center position. Bradbury’s transition will be monitored closely; his ability to snap cleanly and call protections will be vital as the Bears lean on the run.
Chicago’s running back room has proven it can produce yards, but the low ranking underscores a need for versatility. The upcoming Panthers game will be a litmus test for Johnson’s run‑first philosophy and the RB duo’s evolution into a more complete offensive threat.