Brown gives injury updates on Johnson and Swift |
CHICAGO - Interim head coach Thomas Brown will try to get his first win this coming Monday when he and the Bears face the Minnesota Vikings (7 p.m. / ABC). Unfortunately for the Bears, they will be short-handed as multiple players have been ruled out with injury.
Offensive lineman Ryan Bates is out once again with a concussion. Chicago’s sack leader, defensive lineman Gervon Dexter, who was injured in the Bears’ 38-13 blowout loss to the San Francisco 49ers this past Sunday, will also be out as he could not practice all week with a knee injury. Running back Roschon Johnson is once again out with a concussion, while fellow back D’Andre Swift is questionable with a groin injury. Brown seemed optimistic about Swift’s chances of playing against Minnesota. He entered the Bears’ contest against the 49ers questionable with the same injury as he was able to play with. Furthermore, he could practice in a limited fashion on Friday, which is a positive sign. Whether he plays or not, Brown understands the importance of the run game and establishing the run against this defense. “The running back spot is a very volatile position when it comes to what those guys are actually (doing), the amount of contact that happens with that position, and how volatile it can be … Pass protection is going to be (of) utmost (importance) for a defense that brings pressure almost every single snap or gives the illusion of pressure every single snap. But plus, also (getting) the run game going as well (keeps) the guys fresh, rotate throughout the entire game so we can keep that ball rolling with that,” Brown said. “I believe that every running back is dependent on (the) o-line. But, I do believe that special backs can create for themselves. So, what I mean by that is you can turn a four-yard play, a play that’s blocked before, into an eight plus yard run that can win the one-on-one opportunities … As far as Swift goes, I think it’s about being able to understanding how to be detailed which he’s been.” The running back position will need improvement in the offseason. Swift might not be the long-term answer in Chicago. He had some good games during the winning streak earlier in the season. However, he also has four games this season where he averaged under three yards per carry, including last week against San Francisco. In the past three games, he has failed to top 40 rushing yards and has not scored a touchdown. Last offseason, the Bears gave Swift a three-year contract. Therefore, it may not be easy financially to get rid of Swift going into next year. According to Spotrac, if Chicago were to release Swift at the end of this season before March 14, 2025, he would cost the Bears $10,056,667 in dead cap, while a trade anytime before June 1 would have a cap hit of $2,666,667. So, if Chicago is going to move on from Swift after this highly disappointing season, a trade would be much more financially feasible. Johnson, on the other hand, is worth keeping around. He currently leads the Bears in total touchdowns with six despite only having 139 rushing yards and not being incredibly active in the passing game. In addition, he is tied for the most rushing touchdowns out of any player with under 50 carries. Despite the turmoil on the offense, as Chicago is on its third offensive coordinator, Johnson has proved to be a reliable goal-line player. Financially speaking, he is on his rookie contract, which makes him inexpensive. Given his productivity this season and his minimal opportunities, Johnson should have an increased role on the offense next season.
