D’Andre Swift Has A Warning About Bears Appearing On Hard Knocks

Running back D’Andre Swift brings something to the table that could prove valuable to the Chicago Bears over the next few months. He is one of the few players on the roster who has actually appeared on the popular HBO series “Hard Knocks.” It covers an NFL team during training camp as they prepare for the coming season. Swift was with the Detroit Lions in 2022 when they hosted the show. It was a fascinating time. Matthew Stafford was gone. Jared Goff was establishing himself as a quality quarterback again. The team had talent popping up everywhere. Optimism was high.

The problem is that the people running the cameras need drama to sell ratings, which can sometimes lead them to reach for storylines that aren’t there. Swift believes this happened to him two years ago. He explained during his recent presser. While he didn’t fully elaborate, the running back feels the showrunners portrayed him as soft because of how then-running backs coach Duce Staley spoke to him about not working hard enough for extra yards. That never sat right with Swift.

Here is what he said about it after being traded to Philadelphia.

“It was a surprise. There was no really explanation. Everything kind of went through my agent. Like I said, a lot of different emotions going up and down. I’m excited to be here. But, first and foremost, thank Detroit for everything. To the city of Detroit, it will forever have a place in my heart. Will love them for the opportunity that they gave me to just go out there and live out my dreams. Like I said, I’m excited for this new chapter.”

D’Andre Swift certainly used that anger to his advantage.

He rushed for 1,049 yards and five touchdowns last season. It was the best of his career. He also had 359 yards after contact, demonstrating his ability to get extra. This Bears regime is big on players with toughness. They wouldn’t have signed Swift if they thought he was soft. Staley was likely trying to motivate him and the cameras took it the wrong way. Rather than seek clarification, they settled on a narrative and ran with it. That is the sad state of reality television.

It was wise of D’Andre Swift to voice his opinion. He didn’t do anything to disparage the television show. He understands it is for the good of the league and the team. More eyeballs means more money. Still, all the other players must know to be careful about what they say or how they act around the cameras. There is no telling what stories may come out of those exchanges. The best thing to do is stay focused on your job. Entertainment will be there, one way or the other.