Full Breakdown
D’Andre Swift Ruled Out for Bears' Week 9 Matchup Against Bengals
11/1/2025, 3:59:37 AM
Injury Overview and Impact on the Team
The Chicago Bears will face the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9 without their starting running back, D’Andre Swift, due to a lingering groin injury. Swift has been a key player for the Bears, leading the team with 464 rushing yards and four touchdowns this season. However, he has been dealing with this injury for several weeks, which ultimately led to his absence from practice all week and his official ruling out for the game.
Details of the Injury
Swift's groin issue first appeared on the injury report following the Bears' victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 6. Despite playing through the pain in subsequent games, including a standout performance against the New Orleans Saints, where he rushed for 124 yards, the injury has persisted. Bears head coach Ben Johnson noted that Swift's condition has been "chronic" and emphasized the need to protect him for the remainder of the season.
Replacement and Team Adjustments
With Swift sidelined, rookie Kyle Monangai is expected to take over as the lead running back. Monangai has shown promise this season, averaging 4.4 yards per carry and scoring his first touchdown in Week 7. He will share the workload with veteran Travis Homer and potentially Brittain Brown, who may be elevated from the practice squad. Monangai expressed gratitude for the mentorship he has received from Swift and the coaching staff, stating, "I learn every day."
Official Statements & Responses
Bears coach Ben Johnson remarked on Swift's resilience, stating, "We’re just doing our due diligence to make sure that we’re getting the best version of Swift to help this team." He also acknowledged the importance of ensuring Swift is in a good spot for the entire season. Johnson's comments reflect the team's cautious approach to managing player injuries, particularly as they aim for a successful season.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Bears are optimistic about Monangai stepping up, some analysts express concern about the impact of Swift's absence on the team's offensive strategy. The Bears have relied heavily on Swift's performance, and his loss could hinder their ability to execute a balanced offensive game plan against a Bengals defense that has struggled against the run.
What's Next
The Bears will kick off against the Bengals at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday. The team is looking to rebound from a recent loss and will need to adapt quickly to the absence of Swift. The effectiveness of Monangai and the overall performance of the Bears' offense will be critical in determining the outcome of this matchup.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's really been a chronic thing for a while now,” — Ben Johnson, Bears Head Coach
The Bears' ability to navigate this injury setback will be closely watched as they continue their season.
