Bears’ Ben Johnson staying optimistic over murky D’Andre Swift injury

Heading into Friday, Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift has yet to register a practice due to a lingering knee injury. But head coach Ben Johnson isn’t hitting the panic button just yet.

Swift has yet to miss a game for the Bears all season. Leading their rushing attack, he has gained 253 yards and three touchdowns on three 54 carries. Averaging 4.7 yards per carry, Chicago will continue to lean on Swift when healthy.

If he were to miss the game, the Bears would turn to Kyle Monangai. Earning 10 touches in each game, the running back has run for 178 yards and a touchdown. Chicago would be confident with Monangai handling the load, but Johnson knows the offense is at its strongest when both running backs are working in tandem.

The head coach is hoping it doesn’t come to that against the New York Jets. Chicago is already dealing with Caleb Williams’ significant hamstring strain.

Bears’ Ben Johnson staying positive about D’Andre Swift 

How Swift is listed on Friday’s injury report will be extremely telling. If he is able to at least get a limited practice in, his chances of playing on Sunday increase. Johnson remains optimistic because the running back is expected to practice on Friday, via Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.

“Bears RB D’Andre Swift is “still feeling the effects of a Monday night football game.” He is expected to practice today and Ben Johnson is optimistic,” Biggs wrote.

The Bears fought a hard matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles and will now take on another fierce defensive opponent in the Jets. Swift wants to ensure his body is right if he is going to suit up. Coming out of Monday Night Football, he still felt a bit banged up.

Swift’s status will be monitored like a hawk leading up to Sunday’s matchup. The Bears will hope it all becomes a moot point by kickoff.

Update: Swift practices in full on Friday 

Swift returned to a full practice on Friday, via the team’s X, formerly Twitter account. He carries no injury designation heading into Sunday’s matchup.

Turns out, Johnson’s optimism proved correct. Swift may pick up some bumps and bruises along the road as he battles through tackles. Ultimately though, he has been able to overcome all injury obstacles in 2026.

Johnson may utilize Monangai a bit more against the Jets. But Swift is now ready to go and do his part to lead the Bears to victory.

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