Swift’s Struggles in Chicago
Former Georgia Bulldogs standout D’Andre Swift signed a lucrative three-year, $24 million contract with the Chicago Bears in free agency last offseason. However, his first year with the Bears did not go as planned. Swift managed to rush for just 959 yards and six touchdowns, averaging a modest 3.8 yards per carry in 2024. This performance was a stark contrast to his breakout 2023 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he rushed for 1,049 yards and five touchdowns on a much more impressive 4.6 yards per attempt. The drastic decline in his productivity has left the Bears questioning the wisdom of their investment in Swift.
The Bears’ Dilemma
The Bears are now faced with a difficult decision: whether to stick with Swift for the remaining two years of his contract or to look for a way out. Given his underwhelming performance, the Bears may be inclined to explore trade options. The prospect of being stuck with a contract that no longer matches his on-field production is a significant concern for the team. Although Swift has demonstrated his talent in the past, his recent struggles suggest that he may not be the focal point of a contending team’s offensive strategy.
Proposed Trade to the Raiders
Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton has suggested a potential trade scenario that could benefit both the Bears and the Las Vegas Raiders. Moton proposed that the Bears send Swift to the Raiders in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. This trade would allow the Raiders to acquire a talented running back without overpaying in free agency, where top-tier running backs can command hefty salaries. Additionally, it would give the Raiders the flexibility to draft another running back in a strong class, such as Ashton Jeanty, if they choose to do so.
Evaluating the Trade Value
A fifth-round draft pick might seem like a meager return for the Bears, especially considering the high-profile nature of Swift’s free agency signing last March. However, the Bears may have to accept this outcome given the player’s recent performance. Admitting that they "whiffed" on the Swift signing would be a tough pill to swallow, but it could be a necessary step to move forward and allocate resources more effectively. For the Raiders, the trade would provide a chance to add depth at running back without committing to a long-term, high-salary contract.
Swift’s Career Trajectory
D’Andre Swift’s career has shown significant promise, particularly during his college days at the University of Georgia, where he excelled in 2018 and 2019. His early NFL career with the Detroit Lions also hinted at his potential, but his move to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 marked a true breakthrough. Swift’s ability to break tackles, elude defenders, and find running lanes made him a valuable asset. However, his struggles in Chicago have raised questions about his ability to be a consistent, high-impact player. The proposed trade to the Raiders could provide a new start for Swift, allowing him to prove himself in a different environment.
The Future of Swift and the Bears
As the Bears consider their options, the proposed trade to the Raiders represents a realistic and pragmatic solution. While it may not provide the Bears with a significant return, it would free up cap space and allow the team to focus on other areas of need. For Swift, the move to Las Vegas could be a fresh beginning, where he might have the opportunity to rediscover his form and reclaim his position as a top running back in the NFL. Ultimately, both teams stand to gain from a trade that addresses their respective needs and positions them for future success.
