Former GM Gives Bears High Grade For D’Andre Swift Addition

The Chicago Bears haven’t been overly aggressive in free agency this year, but that doesn’t mean they’ve done nothing. Their biggest addition was their first, signing running back D’Andre Swift to a three-year deal to join their backfield. Along with Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson, it gives the offense a deep and versatile group capable of handling any situation. However, lots of national outlets gave GM Ryan Poles low grades for the move, feeling it’s a loss whenever you pay a running back anything.

Not everybody shares that sentiment. Jeff Diamond is a former GM for the Minnesota Vikings. During his review of several free agent acquisitions, he took time to assess the Swift move. From his perspective, the Bears got one of the best running backs in what was a stacked class and didn’t overpay by any serious degree. He is by far their best option in the backfield now and brings something they’ve lacked for a long time: his ability as a pass catcher.

Chicago got a solid overall grade for the move.

The Chicago Bears are adding to their rushing attack with D’Andre Swift, who is among the top running backs in a loaded free agent class. Swift is coming off the best rushing season of his four-year career…

…Swift is a fine dual-purpose back who has 195 career receptions. Although his reception numbers dropped last season (39 catches, 214 yards) in the Eagles’ offense with their dominant wide receiver corps, Swift will provide an upgrade for the Bears as the No. 1 back over Khalil Herbert, who rushed for 611 yards to lead the team’s running backs.

GRADE: B+

Benoit’s Take: It’s simple: Running backs who can create their own space and contribute to the passing game still have value. Those who can only run are replaceable — even if they run really well. The Bears have verified what the film already showed: Swift is in that first group of backs.

D’Andre Swift isn’t a savior. He’s a piece to the puzzle.

The Bears didn’t sign him to rescue the offense. They envision him as a weapon for their next quarterback, whoever it ends up being. Not only is Swift a reliable runner, but his ability as an outlet in the passing game can be so valuable for a young QB. Credit must go to Poles for recognizing the need. With the backfield squared away, the focus has likely shifted to wide receiver. D.J. Moore is a man by himself at the moment. They could use two more reliable options before next season begins.

One would think Poles has earned some trust from fans. He seems to have a sharp eye for talent, especially when it comes to bargain hunting. D’Andre Swift might not have the same star power as a Saquon Barkley or a Josh Jacobs, but he’s been productive everywhere he has played. A creative offensive coordinator like Shane Waldron should find plenty of good uses for him. If Caleb Williams is the #1 pick for the Bears, as many suspect, that skill set will be familiar to the young quarterback based on what he had at USC.

It is a solid addition.