Bears Rule Out Star RB D’Andre Swift for Bengals Game Due to Groin Injury

Chicago Bears Rule Out D’Andre Swift for Bengals Matchup Due to Groin Injury

The Chicago Bears have confirmed a significant roster change ahead of their crucial Sunday contest against the Cincinnati Bengals, officially ruling out starting running back D’Andre Swift due to a persistent groin injury. This decision provides immediate clarity for the team’s offensive planning and signals a necessary period of rest for the veteran playmaker.

Swift, who has been the primary catalyst for the Bears’ ground attack throughout the 2025 season, had been managing the injury for several weeks, often practicing in a limited capacity. However, the medical staff determined that sidelining him for this game was essential to prevent further aggravation and ensure his long-term availability.

This marks the first game Swift will miss since joining the Bears, forcing the coaching staff to execute a substantial pivot in their offensive strategy against a formidable Bengals defense.

The Impact of a Groin Strain on a Running Back

For an athlete whose game relies heavily on explosive movement, a groin strain is particularly debilitating. The injury affects the adductor muscles, which are critical for the lateral movement, cutting ability, and acceleration necessary for a running back to evade defenders and maximize yardage.

Swift’s recent limited practice status indicated the team was attempting to manage the issue, but playing through the pain often results in diminished performance, particularly in the critical areas where Swift excels: creating yards after contact and serving as a dynamic receiving threat out of the backfield.

The decision to rule him out early in the week allows the offensive coordinator to tailor the game plan specifically to the strengths of the remaining backs, rather than hoping for limited production from an injured starter.

Bears Backfield Depth: The Next Man Up

With D’Andre Swift unavailable, the Bears’ backfield rotation will undergo a significant shift. The team is fortunate to possess established depth, with Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson prepared to absorb the majority of the snaps and touches.

Khalil Herbert Assumes the Lead Role

Khalil Herbert is expected to step into the role of the primary ball-carrier. Herbert is known for his downhill, decisive running style and has demonstrated the ability to handle a heavy workload when given the opportunity. His focus will be on maintaining the efficiency of the Bears’ early-down rushing attack and grinding out tough yardage against the Bengals’ defensive front.

Roschon Johnson’s Expanded Role

Roschon Johnson is poised for a substantial increase in his snap count, particularly in situations where Swift’s versatility is most missed. Johnson’s strengths lie in his reliable pass protection and his capability as a receiver, making him the ideal candidate for third-down duties and screen plays. His ability to secure the football and block blitzing linebackers will be crucial in protecting the quarterback.

The typical distribution of touches, which previously favored Swift, will now likely be split, with Herbert handling the majority of the rushing attempts and Johnson filling the crucial role of the situational and receiving back.

Strategic Adjustments Against the Bengals

Swift’s absence is not just a personnel loss; it requires a strategic overhaul for the Bears, especially when facing a high-caliber opponent like the Cincinnati Bengals.

Controlling the Line of Scrimmage

Without Swift’s unique ability to generate explosive plays, the Bears’ offensive line faces heightened pressure. They must create larger, more consistent running lanes to allow Herbert and Johnson to find success. The game plan will likely emphasize clock control and sustained drives to limit the time the Bengals’ potent offense spends on the field.

Increased Pressure on the Passing Game

Swift’s threat as a runner often forces opposing linebackers and safeties to commit to the box, which opens up opportunities in the passing game. His absence allows the Bengals’ defense to potentially drop more defenders into coverage, challenging the Bears’ quarterback to make precise throws and quick reads. The reliance on short-to-intermediate routes and quick releases may increase to compensate for the loss of the ground threat.

Key Takeaways for Fans and Fantasy Managers

This injury ruling has immediate practical consequences for those following the team and managing fantasy rosters:

• Official Status: D’Andre Swift is confirmed ruled out for the game against the Cincinnati Bengals (Week [X]).
• Primary Starter: Khalil Herbert is the immediate starting running back and should be projected for a high volume of carries.
• Situational Back: Roschon Johnson is the clear beneficiary in passing situations and is a strong candidate for increased targets and third-down work.
• Offensive Impact: Expect the Bears’ offense to be slightly less explosive on the ground, placing greater emphasis on the efficiency of the passing game.
• Return Timeline: The team is prioritizing recovery, suggesting the hope is for Swift to return to full strength for the following week’s contest.

Conclusion: Testing the Depth Chart

The decision to rest D’Andre Swift is a necessary measure to protect a valuable asset, even if it complicates a vital game against the Bengals. This situation serves as a crucial test for the Chicago Bears’ depth, particularly for Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson, who now have the opportunity to prove the resilience and versatility of the team’s ground game. The focus remains on strategic execution and maximizing the strengths of the available personnel as the Bears navigate this temporary setback.