D’Andre Swift really turned on the afterburners during the Chicago Bears victory in their thrilling 25-24 triumph over the Washington Commanders. Off the ball, he showed insane physicality and resiliency, despite playing in a storm. The running back, who had previously faced criticism for a slow start to the season, stepped up to lead his team in both rushing and receiving, solidifying his coaches’ faith in his abilities.
Swift’s breakthrough happened only after relentless early-season support from the coaching staff, who saw his potential even as he was unable to show it. Averaging just 3.4 yards per carry before this game, Swift’s performance was quite the reversal. He averaged 175 yards from scrimmage and 87 yards on nine attempts against stacked fronts.
With rainy conditions affecting Soldier Field, the cut and vision the rookie running back exhibited to avoid tacklers was on full display. He had a 55-yard catch-and-run touchdown that showcased his dynamic playmaking ability, as he rushed for just 14 attempts on the season. He averaged a huge 7.7 yards per carry, his best in two years with the Bears. On a personal note, he celebrated his first 100-yard rushing game since the 2024 season.
Coach Ben Johnson rewarded Swift’s excellent performance and celebrating his accomplishment with one of two game balls. The honor couldn’t have come at a better time right after the game. Johnson noted that his squad came into the clash with a small playbook. He was pretty sure Swift will know how to make the big plays.
“Honestly, this is probably the smallest menu (of run plays) we’ve had going into a week,” – Ben Johnson
Swift’s performance was not without challenges. Prior to the game, he was added to the injury report with a groin injury. Consequently, he was listed as questionable going into their week 8 matchup with New Orleans. He still intended to suit up, showing the battle-tested player’s loyalty to the squad and willingness to step up in key moments.
David Williams, running backs coach “He went from showing up on the injury report to — hey, I want the ball early. I wanted him to get the ball out of his hands with a purpose. That way, he’d have the chance to make a play in space, where he really excels.
During the game against the Commanders, Swift gained 21 yards on five carries when the Bears had a numbers advantage in the box, and he rushed for 91 yards on eight carries when running outside. His elusiveness and efficiency as a runner and receiver made him a huge part of the Colts offensive scheme.
Johnson praised Swift’s leadership during sixth years on the field. He feels a coach like Swift is just what the team needs in order to be successful from here on out.
“I think it’s who I really thought he was going to be going into the season. We’re looking for guys that can elevate the people around him, and he did that here [Monday],” – Ben Johnson
As the Bears prepare for their next matchup, Swift’s performance serves as a reminder of his potential and importance to the team’s success. He prevails against the odds and comes through in the clutch. This tremendous talent has shaken up his haters and earned him the respect of his mentors and peers on the field.
Leave a Reply