The Chicago Bears have made a surprising decision just before the start of the 2026 NFL season, agreeing to a contract extension with running back D’Andre Swift. The two sides reached an agreement on a three-year, $33.75 million extension that includes $27.5 million guaranteed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The deal keeps Swift in Chicago through the 2029 season and gives the Bears a long-term commitment to a running back who appeared to be entering the final year of his contract.
Swift earns a major payday
Swift’s new contract is a significant increase from the three-year, $24 million deal he originally signed with Chicago in 2024. The new agreement averages more than $11.2 million per season, putting Swift among the better-paid running backs in the NFL.
The timing makes the deal particularly interesting.
There had been questions about whether Swift would remain with the Bears beyond 2026, especially after most of the guaranteed money from his original contract was paid out. Instead, Chicago decided to lock him up before the regular season even began.
The Bears clearly believe his performance under head coach Ben Johnson’s offense is something worth investing in.
Swift broke out under Ben Johnson
Swift is coming off the best rushing season of his NFL career.
In 2025, he rushed for a career-high 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He also became an important part of an offense that finished third in the NFL with 2,456 rushing yards.
That production came in Johnson’s first season as Chicago’s head coach, and Johnson has made it clear that Swift remains a vital part of the offense.
Swift also has familiarity with Johnson dating back to their time together with the Detroit Lions. That relationship appears to have played an important role in his success in Chicago.
Bears believe Swift can be a long-term weapon
At 27 years old, Swift is entering the prime of his career, and Chicago apparently believes his best football can continue under Johnson.
The Bears also have other talented running backs, including Kyle Monangai and Roschon Johnson, but Swift has established himself as the centerpiece of the position group.
After a career year, the Bears have now rewarded him accordingly.
Chicago clearly doesn’t view Swift as a short-term piece. The new contract shows the Bears believe he can remain a major part of their offense for years to come.
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