While the Chicago Bears aren’t in desperate need of help at running back, another addition to the backfield could be one of their more realistic roster tweaks this summer.
D’Andre Swift, the team’s lead rusher, is still in his mid-20s and not far removed from a Pro Bowl stint with the Philadelphia Eagles. After signing a three-year, $24 million deal prior to the 2024 season, Swift totaled close to 1,350 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns last year.
However, his average of 3.8 yards per carry in his debut season with Chicago marked a career low. Notably, new head coach Ben Johnson was on the Detroit Lions staff when they traded Swift to the Eagles, favoring a dual-back approach with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.
Roschon Johnson’s underwhelming stats and concussion concerns have also raised doubts about Chicago’s backfield depth. Given this context, Mike Pendleton of Bears Wire proposed on June 17 that the team explore bringing in veteran running back Jamaal Williams, who has history with Johnson.
“Williams had the best season of his career under Johnson’s guidance in Detroit, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 17 touchdowns,” Pendleton noted. “While the Bears have looked at several veteran backs, none have the ties to Johnson that Williams does. He also previously shared a backfield with Swift, offering added continuity to Johnson’s new system.”
Jamaal Williams Nearing Final Chapter of NFL Career
Drafted in the fourth round by the Green Bay Packers in 2017, Williams eventually moved to the Lions in 2021 after four seasons in Green Bay.
During his two years with Detroit, Williams thrived in 2022 — Johnson’s first year as offensive coordinator — leading the league with 17 rushing touchdowns.
Afterward, he signed a three-year, $12 million deal with the New Orleans Saints. But over two seasons there, Williams saw limited success, starting just five of 27 appearances and managing only 470 rushing yards, two scores, and modest production as a pass-catcher.
He was released by New Orleans earlier this year and, as of mid-June, remains a free agent. Should a team sign him, he would enter his ninth NFL season at age 30.
Bears Explored Other Backfield Options
Before potentially eyeing Williams, the Bears reportedly pursued Nick Chubb in free agency. The former Cleveland Browns star eventually chose a one-year contract with the Houston Texans.
Currently, Chicago’s depth behind Swift and Johnson consists of rookie Kyle Monangai — a seventh-round pick — and Travis Homer. While Williams may not be a flashy addition, his leadership and experience in Johnson’s scheme could offer valuable support in both the locker room and on the field.
