Are the Bears Really Thinking About Cutting D’Andre Swift? Here's Why 2025 Could Get Wild in Chicago
If there’s one NFL team in 2025 that’s brewing with drama, potential, and big decisions, it’s the Chicago Bears. The team has made waves this offseason — not just with flashy roster moves, but also with a fresh coaching mindset thanks to newly hired head coach Ben Johnson. And while fans are buzzing about what’s next, a curveball has entered the conversation: Could veteran running back D’Andre Swift really be on the chopping block?
Hold up… cutting D’Andre Swift? Yeah, that’s what some insiders are whispering. Let’s unpack the chaos and potential behind this surprising twist in the Windy City.
Let’s Talk Swift: The Current RB1
To understand how we even got to this point, let’s rewind a little. In 2024, Swift had a solid season as the Bears’ primary back. He suited up for all 17 games and posted respectable numbers:
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253 carries
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959 rushing yards
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6 rushing touchdowns
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42 receptions for 386 yards
On the surface, those are reliable stats for a feature back. But dig a little deeper, and there’s one stat that may be raising eyebrows in the front office — his 3.8 yards per carry average. That’s not quite what you’d expect from a guy leading your backfield.
What’s Fueling the Cut Talk?
The conversation around Swift’s status started gaining steam thanks to Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay, who floated the idea that Swift could be a surprise roster cut if things don’t trend in the right direction.
Here’s the deal: Swift is entering the final two years of his deal, and the Bears are staring down cap hits of $9.33 million in 2025 and $8.83 million in 2026. For a player who isn’t breaking big runs or putting up elite efficiency numbers, that’s a hefty price tag.
Kay suggested that if Swift struggles during training camp or if the Bears can’t find a trade partner, they could simply cut ties altogether to free up some financial space.
“Cutting Swift is also an option,” Kay wrote, “especially if he’s struggling in practice and the team can’t find a taker on the trade market.”
The Bigger Picture: It’s Not Just About Swift
Now, let’s not act like Swift’s departure would leave the Bears completely helpless. There’s a young and promising running back room behind him, and while none of the backups have the same résumé, they each bring something to the table.
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Roschon Johnson: A hard-nosed runner with upside who flashed potential last season.
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Kyle Monangai: A lesser-known name but one who could earn more carries if the opportunity arises.
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Travis Homer: Listed as the No. 4 back, mostly contributing on special teams and depth.
Here’s the catch — none of these guys, on their own, scream “feature back.” If Swift were to go, the Bears would either have to sign a proven dual-threat back, like J.K. Dobbins, or lean on a committee approach. Neither scenario is as clean or stable as just rolling with Swift for one more season.
Is It All Just Speculation? Or Could This Actually Happen?
So, is Swift really going to get cut? Probably not — at least not before the season starts. As of now, the more realistic path is that the Bears give Swift one more shot to prove he can bounce back. If he puts together a strong year in 2025, the Bears can feel good about letting him finish out his contract or even discussing an extension. But if his production stalls again, that’s when the trigger might get pulled.
Here are a few reasons Swift likely stays — for now:
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Consistency over chaos: With a new head coach and a revamped offense, the Bears might prioritize stability in the backfield.
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Dual-threat value: Swift’s receiving ability adds a dimension that others on the roster can’t replicate.
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Trade deadline value: Even if he isn’t in their long-term plans, keeping him through midseason could create trade interest.
What Does This Mean for the Bears in 2025?
Looking ahead, this team has the feel of a wild card contender. After years of mediocrity and missed opportunities, Chicago appears to be on the cusp of a legit breakthrough. A lot of that comes down to how they manage their roster — especially key skill positions like running back.
Head coach Ben Johnson brings a fresh offensive vision, one that will likely demand more explosive plays and balanced production from every unit. If Swift can rise to the occasion, he could thrive in this new setup. But if not, the Bears have shown they won’t hesitate to shake things up — even if it means cutting a veteran name.
Let’s Recap the Key Points:
✅ Swift posted decent numbers last year, but his efficiency (3.8 YPC) is a concern.
💰 Cap hit over $9 million in 2025 makes him a financial target if production dips.
👀 Backup RBs like Johnson and Monangai could see increased roles with or without Swift.
⚖️ Cutting Swift is unlikely now, but trade buzz or a midseason move isn’t off the table.
🧠 Ben Johnson’s new system may determine who fits and who doesn’t moving forward.
Final Thoughts: The Bears Are Worth Watching
Make no mistake, the 2025 Chicago Bears are no longer an afterthought in the NFC. Between an aggressive front office, a new coaching staff, and potential personnel drama, there’s no shortage of storylines heading into the season.
Swift’s status is just one of many pieces to this puzzle. Whether he stays, gets traded, or is surprisingly cut, the decision will send ripples through the team’s offensive identity. The Bears are clearly not afraid to make bold moves, and fans should be ready for anything.
So, strap in Bears fans — 2025 is shaping up to be a season of big plays, big decisions, and maybe even bigger surprises.
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