The Chicago Bears gave fans a lot to be excited about this season - a playoff berth, a rejuvenated offense, and a team that finally looked like it was turning the corner. But one of the most compelling storylines? The rise of seventh-round rookie running back Kyle Monangai, who burst onto the scene and became a key cog in one of the NFL’s most efficient rushing attacks.
Monangai wasn’t a household name coming into the season. In fact, as a seventh-round pick, he entered training camp with more questions than expectations. But by the time the dust settled on the regular season, he had carved out a role that was impossible to ignore - even for one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
Tom Brady Takes Notice
When Tom Brady - a man who built a Hall of Fame career on proving doubters wrong - singles you out for praise, it means something. During a segment where Brady handed out his own version of the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, he gave the honor to Panthers wideout Tetairoa McMillan. But he made sure to give Monangai his due as well.
“[Monangai] ran so hard - so forceful and determined,” Brady said. “He was like a dynamo back there.
Every time that Caleb [Williams] handed the ball off to him, he was running through people’s facemasks. I love that style of play, and you had a tremendous year, Kyle; way to go.”
That’s high praise from a guy who’s seen just about every type of backfield weapon over his two-decade career. And it’s not just lip service - Monangai’s tape backs it up.
The Numbers Tell the Story
Monangai’s rookie campaign was defined by physicality and consistency. He wasn’t just running the ball - he was imposing his will. Among 65 NFL running backs with at least 50 carries, Monangai ranked:
- 13th in stuff rate (40.2%) - meaning he consistently avoided getting stopped at or behind the line of scrimmage.
- 24th in total yards after contact (393) - showing he wasn’t going down on first contact.
- 25th in yards after contact per attempt (2.33) - a metric that highlights his ability to fight through tackles.
And when it came to scheme-specific success, Monangai really stood out. Using the same filter, he finished:
- 9th in success rate on man/gap concepts (60%)
- 10th in yards per carry (5.29)
That’s not just solid production - that’s top-tier efficiency from a player who wasn’t even expected to be a regular contributor this year. His downhill, no-nonsense running style gave the Bears a physical edge in the backfield, perfectly complementing the explosiveness of D’Andre Swift. Thunder and lightning, as they say - and Monangai brought the thunder.
Built Like an Underdog, Playing Like a Star
There’s something poetic about Brady recognizing Monangai. Both came into the league as late-round picks with plenty to prove.
Both were overlooked in the pre-draft process. And both turned that chip on their shoulder into fuel.
Monangai isn’t the fastest or flashiest back in the league. But what he brings is grit, vision, and an unwillingness to be tackled easily.
He’s the kind of runner who keeps the offense on schedule, grinds out tough yards, and sets the tone physically. That kind of back may not always make headlines, but coaches love them - and defenses hate tackling them.
This season, Monangai didn’t just earn carries. He earned respect - from his teammates, from his coaches, and now, from a seven-time Super Bowl champion. If this is what he looks like as a rookie, Bears fans have every reason to believe he’s just getting started.