The Chicago Bears invested heavily in their offense this offseason, including a significant $24 million contract for Pro Bowl running back D’Andre Swift over three years. However, the effectiveness of this expenditure is under scrutiny.
On August 29, Ryan Fowler of Bleacher Report listed the most overpaid NFL players by position, and he included Swift’s contract as the worst of its kind. Fowler argued that while Swift had a successful 2023 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, his performance may have been significantly aided by playing behind one of the league’s best offensive lines. Swift has yet to play a full 17-game season, raising doubts about his ability to replicate last year’s success with the Bears’ potentially weaker offensive line.
Additionally, the Bears have Roschon Johnson and Khalil Herbert on their roster, both of whom are on affordable rookie contracts. Together, they combined for nearly 1,000 rushing yards in 2023. Fowler suggested that paying Swift $8 million per year could limit the carries and production of Johnson and Herbert, who are close in age to Swift and are playing under more team-friendly contracts.
D’Andre Swift’s 2023 Performance and Future Prospects
Swift, who is 25 years old, had a standout year in 2023, rushing for a career-high 1,049 yards on 229 attempts and scoring 5 touchdowns. Despite these achievements, his receiving numbers were lower compared to previous seasons, with 39 catches for 214 yards and 1 touchdown.
Swift made his first Pro Bowl in 2023, indicating that he is still developing as a player. The Bears’ offensive line is expected to be improved this season, with advancements in tackles Braxton Jones and Darnell Wright and an upgrade at center.
Potential Impact of the Bears’ Passing Game
The Bears’ revamped passing game, featuring rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and a new group of pass-catchers, might shift some of Swift’s production from rushing to receiving. This could potentially decrease his rushing output due to fewer carries.
If either Johnson or Herbert performs consistently, it could further diminish Swift’s role and productivity, making his contract appear less favorable. As the season progresses, the value of Swift’s contract will depend on how effectively he integrates into the Bears’ offensive scheme and how well he performs given the competition for carries.