Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift is expected to play in Week 8 against the Baltimore Ravens, despite being officially listed as questionable with a groin injury. After missing practice earlier in the week, the veteran rusher made enough progress to return in a limited capacity on Thursday and Friday, signaling his readiness for Sunday’s matchup at Soldier Field. This update comes as a relief for Bears fans and fantasy football managers alike, as Swift’s status was in doubt following multiple missed sessions earlier this week. With the Bears sitting at 4-2 and chasing an NFC playoff berth, his availability provides much-needed stability to Chicago’s balanced offensive approach.
Swift’s Recovery and Performance
Swift’s groin issue surfaced during midweek practice, prompting the team’s medical staff to take a cautious approach. According to team insiders, the injury was never considered severe enough to sideline him long-term. After observing steady improvement and no setbacks in movement drills, Chicago’s coaching staff cleared Swift to play, though his workload may be managed.
Through six games this season, D’Andre Swift has rushed 89 times for 419 yards and three touchdowns, adding 16 receptions for 166 yards and a receiving score. His dual-threat ability has been central to the Bears’ offensive rhythm, particularly in red-zone efficiency and short-yardage situations. The 25-year-old’s explosiveness and cut-back vision have been key to Chicago’s offensive resurgence under rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who benefits significantly from Swift’s presence in play-action situations.
Coach and Analyst Reactions
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus offered cautious optimism ahead of Sunday’s game.
“D’Andre has worked hard all week. We’ve monitored him closely, and he’s responded well,” Eberflus told reporters Friday. “He’s a tough competitor, and if he’s cleared to go, we’ll have him ready.”
NFL analyst Dan Graziano (ESPN) described the development as “a significant boost for the Bears’ offensive game plan,” adding that Swift’s versatility “forces defenses to stay honest, opening up passing lanes for Caleb Williams.”
Fantasy expert Matthew Berry also noted that Swift remains a “low-end RB1” option in most formats but advised managers to monitor his in-game workload, as Chicago could rotate in Roschon Johnson if needed.
Impact on Bears’ Game Plan and Season Outlook
Swift’s expected return has major implications for Chicago’s offensive balance heading into Week 8. Facing a 1-5 Ravens team missing star quarterback Lamar Jackson (hamstring), the Bears’ ground game could dictate tempo early. Chicago has averaged 134.5 rushing yards per game, ranking in the NFL’s top 10, while Baltimore’s defense has allowed over 120 rushing yards in three of their last four contests. Swift’s presence ensures the Bears can maintain their run-pass equilibrium, creating better opportunities for Williams to attack through play-action and screens. A victory Sunday would solidify Chicago’s status as a legitimate NFC contender. Analysts suggest that maintaining Swift’s health will be critical down the stretch as the Bears prepare for crucial divisional matchups against the Lions and Packers in November.
Monitoring Swift’s Status
The Bears are expected to keep Swift on a pitch count, particularly if the game script favors Chicago early. Team sources note that trainers will “keep close tabs” on his groin condition, and the team may adjust carries depending on his comfort level during warmups.
For fantasy football managers, Swift remains a startable option but carries moderate risk due to potential snap limitations. Backup Roschon Johnson should be viewed as a speculative flex play should the Bears opt to manage Swift’s touches. Postgame updates on Swift’s health are expected to be released during the team’s Monday media availability.
