The Chicago Bears are working to fully utilize the strengths of their running backs, which could mean more opportunities for players other than D’Andre Swift.
So far, the Bears’ run game has been one of the most disappointing aspects of their offense. Through three games, they rank 31st in yards per carry, only slightly ahead of the Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the last spot. Despite having talented backs, the team continues to squander opportunities to establish a successful ground attack.
D’Andre Swift, who was among the first free agents to sign with the Bears this offseason, has struggled to find his footing, though it’s not entirely his fault. Chicago’s offensive line has failed to open up clear running lanes, leaving Swift with few options. As a result, heading into Week 4, the Bears plan to shake things up in their backfield.
Observers have noticed that the Bears haven’t been able to tap into the full potential of their running back trio. While Swift has carried most of the load, his inside-the-tackles runs have been unproductive. Meanwhile, Khalil Herbert has only seen eight carries so far, and Roschon Johnson, who played his first offensive snaps in Week 3, has barely been involved.
Looking ahead to the Bears’ game against the Los Angeles Rams, head coach Matt Eberflus hinted at a more balanced approach. He suggested the team will look to better align each back’s unique strengths with their role on the field.
“I think we have three guys with unique skillsets that we can utilize as we progress through the season, and it’s important we do that,” said Eberflus. “Roschon showed his ability to run the ball effectively and contribute in the passing game, Swift made some big plays in the air, and Herbert has been making plays as well. We need to capitalize on that and put them in the best situations.”
So far, the Bears’ offense, under coordinator Shane Waldron, has leaned heavily on Swift without much success. Adjusting the workload and getting Herbert and Johnson more involved could help breathe new life into the offense.
To that end, the team may scale back Swift’s role in the running game, especially given the struggles of the offensive line. Swift’s style hasn’t meshed well with the Bears’ current blocking schemes, and he hasn’t been able to consistently break through for meaningful gains.
Eberflus pointed to Swift’s struggles in pressing the line of scrimmage as a key issue. “It’s about pressing the hole and creating for the offensive line. It’s not about hitting it too fast but letting things develop before making your cut,” he said.
Johnson, in particular, appears better suited for tough carries up the middle, especially while the offensive line continues to struggle. After averaging 3.8 yards per carry last week, Eberflus noted that Johnson’s physical style of running impressed him. Analysts like ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler expect Johnson’s role to expand this week, as the team looks to distribute touches more effectively.
Swift, on the other hand, may thrive more as a pass-catching option out of the backfield. He’s caught six of nine targets this season for 46 yards, compared to a meager 68 yards on 37 rushing attempts. Herbert’s shiftiness and speed could provide a valuable change of pace when mixed with Swift’s pass-catching ability and Johnson’s power running.
The Bears’ coaching staff seems to have recognized the need for these adjustments. The question remains: will they follow through with the changes that could finally unlock the potential of their backfield?
