Overview
- Swift exited a late practice on Thursday with midsection discomfort that multiple reports called a cramp, and coaches expect him to be available for the Sept. 13 opener.
- Kyle Monangai hyperextended his right knee on Aug. 16 and remains officially week‑to‑week, though teammates have seen him running in practice and the team is still evaluating his readiness.
- If Monangai cannot play, the Bears plan to rely on Swift as the primary ball carrier with support from Roschon Johnson and added depth options Zavier Scott and practice‑squad member Salvon Ahmed.
- Swift enters 2026 after a 2025 breakout (1,087 rushing yards, 4.9 yards per carry) and coach Ben Johnson intends to use him more as a receiver, increasing the likelihood he will absorb a heavy early workload.
- Swift is in the final year of a three‑year, $24 million deal and GM Ryan Poles says the team will consider an extension while balancing cap priorities for Caleb Williams and other core players, so Swift's play this season will carry financial weight.