Ben Johnson sees something different in D'Andre Swift entering 2026

Johnson offered an enthusiastic assessment of Swift this week, saying the veteran running back looks better right now than he did at this point a year ago.

"It's the best I've seen him this time of year," Johnson said. "And you look back at a year ago, he was very explosive, and yet it takes a little while to gel between him and the offensive line."

That adjustment period is no longer an issue. Johnson believes Swift's understanding of Chicago's running game, particularly his vision and timing, has taken another step.

"I think he's accelerating his vision here at this point," Johnson said. "I think Coach Studesville has been fantastic for him just with the reads and being able to know the intent of where we're trying to hit things.

"I think he's primed for a big year."

D'Andre Swift could be even better in Year 2 with Ben Johnson

Swift is coming off one of the best seasons of his career. He topped 1,000 rushing yards for the second time in three seasons in 2025 while averaging 4.9 yards per carry, and his success helped the Bears finish with one of the NFL's most productive rushing attacks.

Now there's reason to believe he can become even more efficient.

Johnson pointed to Swift's understanding of where runs are designed to hit and his ability to react once that initial read develops. "He hits it right on the spot when it's there, and then he cuts it up," Johnson said. "I think he's doing a really good job right now."

Swift's explosiveness has never been in question. His ability to accelerate through a crease and generate chunk gains is his calling card.

But explosiveness becomes more valuable when it's paired with patience, vision, and a complete understanding of the blocking scheme. And that's the improvement Johnson appears to be seeing.

Swift remains a major piece of Bears' loaded offense

It's easy for Swift to become overlooked when discussing the Bears' offensive weapons.

Caleb Williams is entering Year 2 with Johnson. Colston Loveland looks ready for another step. Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III give Chicago an exciting young receiving tandem.

But a dangerous running game could be what ties everything together.

Swift has already enjoyed arguably one of the best training camps among Chicago's offensive skill players, and Johnson's latest comments reinforce how strongly the coaching staff feels about where his game stands entering the season.

There are plenty of reasons for optimism surrounding the Bears offense in 2026, and Johnson believes Swift belongs near the top of that list.