Chicago – The Chicago Bears suffered a double blow to their offense on Thursday when running back D’Andre Swift and wide receiver Rome Odunze were forced out of practice with injuries. Both players are key starters for the team as it prepares for its season‑opening game on Sept. 13 against the Carolina Panthers.
Swift’s midsection injury
Swift, 27, was carrying the ball from the offense’s one‑yard line on a first‑and‑10 play when he clutched his midsection and left the field. The Chicago Tribune reported he appeared to be in “significant discomfort.” The Athletic confirmed the injury seemed serious enough to end his practice session.
Odunze’s leg issue
Rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze, 24, was sidelined early after an apparent right‑leg problem. He tried to stay in the drill but ultimately left with a trainer. Preliminary reports from The Athletic suggest the issue is not severe and he should be fine.
Team response
The Bears have not released an official update on the status of either player. Head coach Ben Johnson is not scheduled to meet with the media until next week, and the league’s first injury report is due Wednesday before the team’s season debut.
Backup depth
Kyle Monangai, Swift’s primary backup, is still recovering from a hyper‑extended right knee suffered on Aug. 16, limiting the Bears’ immediate depth at running back.
Season stats recap
Swift finished last season with 1,087 rushing yards, nine rushing touchdowns, 299 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown in 16 starts. He has 4,775 career rushing yards and 38 touchdowns, plus 271 receptions for 2,097 yards and nine receiving scores. Odunze, a first‑round pick in 2024, recorded 44 receptions for 661 yards and six touchdowns in 12 starts last season.
The Bears will have to assess the health of both players before the season begins, hoping the injuries are not more than minor setbacks.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
