The Chicago Bears are deep into their offseason evaluations, cycling through rookie minicamp and OTA reps to gauge how new additions are meshing with the system. While positional battles are still taking shape, one rookie in the backfield has started to generate real buzz. At the same time, Chicago has notably passed on pursuing established names like Pro Bowler Nick Chubb and veteran J.K. Dobbins—both of whom were available on the open market. With fans and analysts calling for a reliable reinforcement at running back, the Bears may be showing through action that they believe the answer is already in-house.
Fueling that speculation is a recent report by Alex Kay of Bleacher Report, who identified D’Andre Swift as a potential veteran on the chopping block. Swift, the current RB1, is coming off a disappointing season, and primary backup Roschon Johnson also failed to progress. Kay wrote:
'Monangai represents a chance for actual competition this offseason. While expectations aren't sky-high for a late-Day 3 pick, the Rutgers product has drawn comparisons to fellow Scarlet Knight Isiah Pacheco and could push Swift for touches with a strong camp.'
Chicago Bears helmet
Chicago Bears helmet
Getty Images
That optimism is backed by head coach Ben Johnson, who recently singled out Kyle Monangai as one of four standouts during mandatory minicamp practice. As shared by ChicagoBears.com:
'In the running back room, Kyle Monangai has really stepped up,' Johnson said. 'I appreciate the attention to detail and the pride he takes and how quickly he's picking things up.'
Being named as one of just four players to stand out this offseason is no small statement—especially for a late-round rookie. In a crowded backfield room, that kind of recognition from the play-caller himself speaks volumes about Monangai's early impact.
Rutgers fans have also rallied behind the rookie, praising his gritty style and elite blitz pickup skills on social media. One supporter wrote:
'May become an honorary Bears fan because of how much I love watching this guy play football. Constantly made something out of nothing against B1G defenses. Extremely slippery and powerful—almost always falls forward. Didn't do much pass catching because of how involved in the rushing attack he was, but probably one of the best blitz pickup backs I've ever seen. Lacks breakaway speed which may lead to getting hawked down, but you'll get your chunk plays. Was a low recruit, had a chance to leave for an NIL bag, stayed and became a Rutgers legend. Very excited for him.'
With Monangai rising and the Bears passing on big-name free agents, a quiet backfield shake-up could already be in motion. Whether he climbs the depth chart or simply forces veteran accountability, the rookie’s presence is already altering expectations at Halas Hall.