Breaking News: Chicago Bears Confirm Star Running Back D’Andre Swift to Miss Remainder of Season with Groin Injury, Hinder Critical Matchup Against Packers
In a crushing blow to the Chicago Bears’ playoff aspirations, the team confirmed Friday that star running back D’Andre Swift will miss the rest of the 2025 season due to a groin injury. The versatile player, a cornerstone of the Bears’ explosive rushing attack, suffered the setback during Sunday’s dominant 31-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns. Swift, who had rushed for two touchdowns and was pivotal in the Bears’ 10-4 start, is expected to undergo further evaluation, solidifying his absence for the pivotal Week 16 showdown against division rival Green Bay Packers.
The loss of Swift is monumental:
– *Running Game Impact:* The Bears relied heavily on Swift and rookie Kyle Monangai, combining for 255 yards and two touchdowns against Philadelphia. Without Swift, Monangai will shoulder much of the load, though the Packers’ run defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly when their top edge rusher Micah Parsons is absent (torn ACL). “The running game has been our identity,” coach Ben Johnson stressed. “This hurts”. ¹ ²
– *Playoff Position:* Chicago (10-4) leads the NFC North by a half-game over Green Bay. Missing Swift dampens hopes of clinching a first-round bye, especially as they battle the Packers Saturday night (7:20 p.m. CT, FOX). “We haven’t accomplished anything yet,” Johnson cautioned.
– *Offensive Adjustments:* With receivers Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III already out, Caleb Williams will lean even more on the run and tight end Colston Loveland, the team’s leading receiver (455 yards). “We go as far as they go,” Monangai said, highlighting the unit’s resilience. ³
Swift’s injury leaves a gaping hole:
— He led the Bears with 732 rushing yards.
— Averaged 4.8 yards per carry.
— His explosive presence forced defenses to account for him, freeing up passing lanes.
The Bears medical staff indicated the groin strain requires rest and possible intervention, dashing hopes of a quick return. “It’s a tough pill,” said a Bears spokesperson. “D’Andre’s work ethic is unmatched. We support a full recovery.”
Reactions:
– “A devastating loss. The heart of our offense,” tweeted Bears fans.
– Analyst Doug Gray noted, “Without Swift, Green Bay’s weakened pass rush becomes an opportunity, but losing that ground punch is crippling”.
The Packers, missing Parsons and possibly running back Josh Jacobs (game-time decision), present an unpredictable matchup. The Bears must pivot, relying on Monangai, veteran ball security, and Williams’ poise. “This is a war of attrition,” Johnson said. “We find a way”.
The Chicago Bears will hold a press conference Saturday morning addressing strategies. In the meantime, the NFL world wishes Swift a swift recovery.
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