The Chicago Bears' ground attack was a revelation last season, surprising many with its effectiveness. Despite swirling rumors about D'Andre Swift's future with the team, keeping the former Georgia Bulldog in the fold might just be the best play.
It seems the Bears' hand is being forced in this situation. ESPN reports that the Miami Dolphins have no plans to trade De'Von Achane, which narrows the Bears' options if they were considering moving Swift to secure a long-term partner for Kyle Monangai.
"De'Von Achane apparently will not be part of the Miami Dolphins' offseason roster purge," according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Teams interested in Achane have been informed he's off the table.
This development is a boon for Swift, who's been the subject of trade whispers since last season. The Bears were also linked to Achane, a dynamic dual-threat back, as a potential acquisition.
Trading Achane seemed logical for Miami after parting ways with star WR Jaylen Waddle. However, at just 24, Achane remains a valuable asset for the Dolphins, who need to provide new QB Malik Willis with some offensive weapons as he adjusts to life in South Beach.
For Swift, this is a golden opportunity. After all, he was instrumental in the Bears averaging 144.5 rushing yards per game, ranking third in the league.
Swift's performance, with 67.9 rushing yards per game, 1,087 total yards on 223 carries, and nine touchdowns, was nothing short of stellar. He also contributed through the air with 34 receptions for 299 yards and a touchdown.
The Bears faced a tricky financial landscape this offseason. GM Ryan Poles had to make tough decisions to balance the books. Swift, with his $6.39 million salary and $8.8 million cap hit, seemed like a potential cap casualty, especially with Monangai in the mix.
However, Monangai's late-season struggles and Swift's consistent production make a strong case for retaining Swift. Staying with a playoff contender is certainly more appealing than joining a rebuilding squad. While the idea of pairing Ben Johnson with a speedster like Achane is tantalizing for Bears fans, it appears that scenario will remain a fantasy for now.