The Chicago Bears have made it clear: their running game will be a driving force in 2025, and at the center of that plan is none other than D’Andre Swift. After an explosive 2023 campaign with the Philadelphia Eagles, Swift was signed by the Bears with the hopes of rejuvenating a rushing attack that’s been inconsistent at best. But the big question looming over Halas Hall and every fan watching from Soldier Field to the far corners of the Midwest is this—can D’Andre Swift finally break the 1,000-yard barrier as a Chicago Bear?
The Bears are putting their faith in Swift not just to perform, but to thrive. Swift has flirted with the 1,000-yard mark before, most notably last season when he racked up 1,049 yards and five touchdowns with the Eagles. He showed the durability, vision, and breakaway speed that made him a high second-round pick back in 2020. Now, in Chicago, he’s walking into a completely different environment—one that’s starved for backfield success and desperate to climb out of the NFC North basement.
Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, who came over from Seattle in the offseason, has emphasized a more balanced offensive scheme that leans on zone runs and creative misdirection. This bodes well for Swift’s skillset, which thrives when he has room to work and the opportunity to bounce plays outside. Pair that with a young and hungry offensive line featuring rising stars like Teven Jenkins and rookie bulldozer Jordan Morgan, and the Bears might have the ingredients for Swift’s breakout moment in the Windy City.
But the path to 1,000 yards won’t be easy. He’ll have to fend off carries from backup Khalil Herbert, who is still viewed by many in the building as a reliable change-of-pace option. Add in the Bears’ growing confidence in quarterback Caleb Williams to take command of the offense, and Swift will have to make the most of every carry if he wants to hit that magic number.
Still, the excitement is real. During OTAs, Swift looked sharp, decisive, and every bit the playmaker GM Ryan Poles envisioned when he made the move. His burst through the hole has returned, and he’s shown increased patience behind his blockers. There’s a sense among the coaching staff that Swift is walking into his prime, and that the Bears may finally have their first true bell-cow back since the days of Matt Forte.
If he stays healthy and Chicago’s offense gels as expected, D’Andre Swift could not only reach the 1,000-yard mark—he could blow past it. In a division known for smashmouth football and harsh winters, the Bears may have found the perfect answer in their backfield. All eyes are on No. 0 to carry the weight of expectations—and possibly carry the Bears back to relevance in the NFC North.