Bears 2026 Training Camp RB Preview

Swift’s Resurgence

D’Andre Swift entered training camp as a possible cut candidate, yet he turned the season into a personal highlight reel. The three‑year, $24 million deal he inked two years ago now looks like a bargain after his breakout 2025 campaign. Swift posted career highs of 1,087 rushing yards, nine touchdowns and 62 first‑downs while averaging 4.9 yards per carry. His improved confidence and physicality at the point of attack made him a focal part of the Bears’ ground attack.

Monangai’s Breakout Year

Former seventh‑round pick Kyle Monangai was once viewed as a disappointment in a draft deep with running backs. After serving as a backup to Swift, he earned his moment in Week 9 against Cincinnati, rushing 26 times for 176 yards. His power style complemented Swift’s versatility, and the duo formed a two‑back system that produced over 100 yards in a game against Philadelphia. By season’s end, Monangai recorded 783 yards and five rushing touchdowns.

Roster Contenders

Roschon Johnson was slated to be the short‑yardage back, but a camp injury limited his progress. He managed only two carries for 17 yards in seven games, leaving him on the roster bubble as a contract‑year player. Brittain Brown joined the team after multiple injuries to other backs and displayed enough in preseason to earn a practice‑squad spot. His brief appearance in Week 9 yielded five carries for 37 yards and a touchdown, giving him a chance to earn a backup role.

Ahmed’s Return Attempt

Salvon Ahmed signed a one‑year deal in March hoping to revive his career after a severe leg injury with Indianapolis. He posted a solid rookie line of 389 yards and three touchdowns with Miami in 2020, but has seen little play since 2023. Bear back‑field coach Eric Studesville knows Ahmed from their time together in Miami and is optimistic a full offseason could unlock his potential. A strong camp could set the stage for a comeback.

Bennett’s Undrafted Opportunity

Coleman Bennett arrived as an undrafted free agent from Kennesaw State, where he accumulated 764 yards and four touchdowns over his college career. Scouts praised his aggressive demeanor and relentless effort in the backfield. With minimal competition at the position, Bennett is in line to compete for the third‑down back spot behind Swift and Monangai. His raw talent and work ethic give him a realistic shot at earning a roster spot.

The Starting Debate

Despite a lackluster 2024, D’Andre Swift remains the presumptive starter entering 2026 camp. However, Monangai’s strong finish has sparked discussion about a possible split‑back committee system. Monangai offers a classic power running style, while Swift can serve as a change‑of‑pace option. The coaching staff may go with the hot hand, meaning either back could see the majority of carries depending on early performance.

What It Means for 2026

The depth at running back gives the Bears flexibility to balance the attack and keep defenders guessing. Health will be the deciding factor, with Swift and Monangai both looking to build on their 2025 strides. If the committee works as intended, the offense could become one of the league’s better ground units. The competition among the supplemental backs will also shape the practice‑squad hierarchy and influence final roster cuts.