REPORT: Chicago Bears Making A Big Push For Underrated RB

The Chicago Bears were rumored to be in the running back market about a week from the start of free agency. While people wondered if they might take a swing at Saquon Barkley or Josh Jacobs, it appears they're aiming for somebody who is also talented but likely cheaper. Adam Schefter of ESPN revealed they are hunting former Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles running back D'Andre Swift. He rushed for a career-high 1,049 yards and five touchdowns last season despite only 229 carries.

UPDATE:

This move is a minor surprise. While Swift is a talented player, spending $8 million per year on a running back didn't feel like something GM Ryan Poles would do. However, with the Bears on the cusp of adding a rookie quarterback in the draft, they likely felt it was necessary to fortify the roster with as many weapons as possible. Swift is not only a capable running but a dangerous threat out of the backfield as a receiver. He has 195 receptions across his first four seasons in the league.

The Chicago Bears' interest in Swift is easy to understand.

It starts with the versatility mentioned above. Next is the explosiveness. Swift lives up to his name with sub-4.5 speed. It is a big reason he averaged 4.6 yards per carry last year. Better still, he has the vision and patience tailor-made for the Bears' wide-zone rushing scheme. He understands where the holes will be and has the acceleration to get through them. It is a great fit and he's still only 25 years old. If he stays healthy and the same player he's been the past few years, that $8 million per season will seem like a bargain.

His addition alongside Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson gives the Chicago Bears a deep and multi-faceted backfield. Swift can handle the workhorse carries, with Herbert coming in as a perfect rotational back. Johnson can serve in short yardage and be their dependable option in pass protection. It is a well-rounded group. Give Poles credit for that. It also leaves all options open for the Bears to continue making moves. Don't be surprised if they stay on the attack for offensive help.