The Chicago Bears’ New Direction with Ben Johnson
The Chicago Bears have made a significant move by hiring Ben Johnson as their new offensive coordinator, a decision that reflects the team’s ambition to return to playoff contention. Johnson, known for his innovative and dynamic offensive strategies, has a proven track record of success, particularly in Detroit where he orchestrated a potent running game. However, the Bears are at a crossroads, and a strategic overhaul might be necessary to fully leverage Johnson’s expertise. One bold suggestion from FanSided’s Terrence Johnson involves trading away current star D’Andre Swift to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick, and then using their No. 10 overall pick to select Ashton Jeanty, a prospect with the potential to become a breakout star.
D’Andre Swift: A Mixed Bag of Performance
D’Andre Swift, fresh off a Pro Bowl season, signed a three-year, $24 million deal with the Bears. Despite his notable achievements, Swift’s 2023 season was lackluster, netting only 959 rushing yards over 17 starts. This performance is a significant dip compared to his final year with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he had fewer attempts but was more impactful. Terrence Johnson’s suggestion to trade Swift is not without merit. Swift’s inconsistent output and the Bears’ need for a dynamic playmaker could make this move worthwhile. The Raiders, struggling with the league’s worst rushing attack, would likely be more than willing to part with a sixth-round pick to improve their running game, especially given Swift’s recent Pro Bowl status.
A Strategic Trade for Future Potential
Ben Johnson has already demonstrated his willingness to trade away established players to draft more explosive replacements. In Detroit, he traded Swift to make room for Jahmyr Gibbs, whom the Lions selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 draft. Gibbs has been a revelation, showcasing his electrifying speed and versatility. If the Bears follow a similar path, drafting Ashton Jeanty could have a similarly transformative impact. Jeanty, known for his explosive playmaking abilities, could bring a new dimension to the Bears’ offense. Johnson’s offensive schemes in Detroit often featured a dual-threat running game, and replicating this success in Chicago could be the key to unlocking the team’s full potential.
The Allure of Ashton Jeanty
Ashton Jeanty is a highly-touted prospect with a skill set that aligns perfectly with Johnson’s offensive philosophy. His combination of speed, agility, and power makes him a versatile running back capable of breaking big plays and contributing in the passing game. Jeanty’s potential is undeniable, and his presence could energize the Bears’ offense. The No. 10 overall pick is a valuable asset, and selecting a player of Jeanty’s caliber could provide a long-term solution to the team’s running back woes. Moreover, Johnson’s history of success with young, dynamic backs suggests that Jeanty could thrive under his tutelage.
Balancing the Running Game
If the Bears trade Swift and draft Jeanty, they will need to ensure they have another reliable running back to complement him. The dual-threat running game that Johnson employed in Detroit, featuring David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, was a cornerstone of the Lions’ offensive success. Montgomery, who has been a cornerstone of the Bears’ running game, remains a crucial piece of the puzzle. Pairing him with Jeanty could create a formidable duo that can keep defenses guessing and provide multiple options for big plays. This balance is essential for any offense aiming to be versatile and unpredictable.
Considering the Broader Implications
The decision to trade Swift and draft Jeanty is not just about immediate offensive improvement; it’s about building a sustainable and competitive roster. The Bears are facing several challenges, including the potential loss of other key players in free agency. For example, FanSided predicts that the Bears could lose a $22 million Pro Bowler to the Giants. Trading Swift and using the No. 10 overall pick to select Jeanty could be a strategic move to ensure the team has a strong foundation for the future. It would also free up financial resources to address other areas of need. Ultimately, the Bears’ path to playoff success may hinge on their ability to make bold and calculated moves like this one.
