Bears RB D'Andre Swift Predicted to Leave in 2027 Free Agency

ESPN analyst forecasts the dynamic running back's potential departure from Chicago after next season.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:03pm

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According to an early free agency preview by ESPN's Matt Bowen, Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift is expected to leave the team as a free agent after the 2026 season. Swift, who is coming off a career-high 1,087 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns in 2025, is part of a productive backfield rotation in coach Ben Johnson's offense but may command a lucrative contract that the Bears may not be able to match.

Why it matters

The potential loss of Swift would be a significant blow to the Bears' high-powered offense, which has emerged as one of the league's best under coach Johnson. The team will have to weigh the value of retaining Swift against allocating resources to other positions, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

The details

Swift signed a 3-year, $24 million contract with the Bears in 2024. As he enters the final year of that deal, he will be looking to maximize his value in free agency at age 28. Bowen notes that Swift's skill set, which includes both rushing and receiving ability, makes him an ideal fit in the Bears' zone-heavy scheme. However, the team also has a talented young back in Kyle Monangai, which could factor into their long-term plans at the position.

  • Swift signed a 3-year, $24 million contract with the Bears in 2024.
  • Swift is entering the final year of that contract in the 2026 season.
  • Swift will be 28 years old when he hits free agency in 2027.

The players

D'Andre Swift

A dynamic running back for the Chicago Bears who is coming off a career-best season in 2025 and is expected to command a lucrative contract in free agency in 2027.

Ben Johnson

The head coach of the Chicago Bears, who has helped transform the team's offense into one of the league's most productive units.

Kyle Monangai

A young running back for the Chicago Bears who could factor into the team's long-term plans at the position.

Matt Bowen

An ESPN analyst who provided an early look at the top players expected to hit free agency in 2027, including Bears RB D'Andre Swift.

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What they’re saying

“Swift boosted his value last season in coach Ben Johnson's offense. He rushed for a career-high 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns, while adding 34 receptions. Part of a backfield rotation, he fits best in zone-heavy scheme where he can press the ball to dayight and contribute to the pass game.”

— Matt Bowen, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Bears will have to decide whether to prioritize re-signing Swift or allocate those resources elsewhere on the roster. They could also look to the 2027 NFL Draft to potentially find Swift's replacement if they are unable to reach a new deal.

The takeaway

The potential departure of D'Andre Swift would be a significant loss for the Bears' offense, but the team's front office will have to weigh the value of retaining him against the need to invest in other areas of the roster. This decision will be a key factor in determining the Bears' offensive identity and success in the coming years.