The Chicago Bears got D’Andre Swift back on the practice field Thursday, but the bigger story is still Kyle Monangai’s continued absence after his incredible performance last weekend. Swift was a limited participant in practice, sidelined by hip and knee injuries that kept him out entirely on Wednesday. This all throws a massive wrench into Chicago’s backfield ahead of their crucial matchup.
Swift Back, But What’s His Role After That Fumble?
So Swift is technically back, but it’s hard to get too hyped when he’s still limited by hip and knee issues. He sat out Wednesday, which isn’t exactly a vote of confidence for a guy who’s supposed to be your lead back. Last weekend against the Jets, Swift had 15 carries for 58 yards, which isn’t terrible, but he also coughed up a fumble. That’s a huge problem, especially when the other guy in the backfield was absolutely cooking. Friday’s update on his injury designation for Sunday’s game against the Packers is going to be massive.
Monangai’s Absence Is a Monster Headache for Chicago
Here’s the real kicker: Kyle Monangai, the guy who lit up the scoreboard last week, is still stuck on the sidelines with thumb and toe injuries. You gotta be kidding me! This dude went off, running 30 times for an insane 146 yards and punching in three touchdowns in Chicago’s 23-12 win. That’s a game-changing performance, and now he’s out? It makes Swift’s limited return feel even stranger. Chicago fans must be tearing their hair out wondering who’s going to carry the load if Monangai can’t go.
Beyond the running back drama, the Bears are dealing with a bunch of other injury headaches. Quarterback Caleb Williams missed another practice due to a hamstring injury, and linebacker Keyshaun Elliott sat out with a quad issue after being limited on Wednesday. Guards Jonah Jackson (ankle) and Joe Thuney (pectoral), along with offensive tackle Darnell Wright (ankle), were all limited in practice after missing the start of the week. On the bright side, defensive back Kyler Gordon, defensive lineman Grady Jarrett (rest), defensive back Cam Lewis, linebacker Noah Sewell, and defensive lineman Shemar Turner all managed full participation.
The Bears are set to face the Packers on Sunday, and with Monangai’s status up in the air, Chicago’s ground game is a huge question mark. Who’s going to step up and put up those numbers? Friday’s injury updates will tell us everything about what the Bears’ backfield is going to look like.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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