Bears rush attack faces Seattle test

The Chicago Bears rank first in the NFL for rushing yards despite suffering a three-game slump. Coach Ben Johnson’s unit has maintained its top spot even as production has dipped in recent weeks. The team visits the Seattle Seahawks on Monday, a contest that could define the next phase of the season.

Seattle’s defense presents a formidable challenge for any offensive line. The Seahawks hold the sixth-best defense against the run in the league. They recently limited the Kansas City Chiefs to a season-low 50 rushing yards, with 14 of those coming from quarterback Patrick Mahomes. That performance underscores the physical resistance Chicago must overcome.

Lead running back D’Andre Swift carries the immediate burden. He has not rushed for more than 100 yards in a game since the season opener against the Carolina Panthers. In that initial contest, Swift recorded 124 yards and three touchdowns. His subsequent output has faded, contributing to the Bears’ 295 total rushing yards over their last three games against Green Bay, Atlanta, and New England.

The decline coincides with the absence of backup running back Kyle Monangai, who is dealing with a toe injury. Monangai rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns against the New York Jets in his last appearance. The Bears have experimented with Roschon Johnson in the second-team role and signed practice squad back Zavier Scott to the active roster this week. Monangai did not participate in the Wednesday media session.

Despite the recent drop, Chicago averages 154.3 rushing yards per game this season. That pace places them on track for a top-10 rushing total in franchise history. The team averaged nearly 200 yards per game before the current slump began. Restoring that level of potency is a stated priority for the coaching staff.

Seattle’s defensive secondary may prove the most difficult hurdle for the Bears’ passing attack. Cornerback Devon Witherspoon and safety Julian Love are expected to disrupt quarterback Caleb Williams. A steady ground game will reduce the number of contested passes in the air. This balance is critical because the Seahawks’ front seven is considered among the best in the league by Swift.

On the other side of the ball, Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold has thrown a league-high eight interceptions. His performance is his worst of the last three seasons. The Seahawks may rely more heavily on their ground game as a result. Rookie running back Jadarian Price, a first-round pick from Notre Dame, is eligible to return from injured list with a chest injury.

Head coach Mike MacDonald said Price is practicing and may be ready to play. The Seahawks also acquired eight-time Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts this week. MacDonald noted that Nelson’s readiness for Monday is uncertain. Bears linebacker Devin Bush acknowledged Price’s talent but emphasized the need to focus on current film evidence rather than past potential.