Chicago Bears see two veterans declared as “on the hot seat” in 2026

The Chicago Bears took major strides in 2025 compared to where they were in 2024. After finishing 5-12 and in last place in the NFC North just a year ago, they went 11-6 this season and won the division. New head coach Ben Johnson, indeed, had a great deal to do with the turnaround, and the culture he has brought to Chicago is infectious throughout the locker room.

But what is most promising for the Bears is that their young talent blossomed in 2025 and was also a massive reason for the team’s success.

That does mean, though, that some long-time (and expensive) veterans may be expendable going forward.

PFF names Chicago Bears veterans DJ Moore and D’Andre Swift as on the hot seat

Two of the veterans that saw younger players take a bigger role in the offense were wide receiver DJ Moore and running back D’Andre Swift.

PFF seems to believe that, if either or both of these players don’t outproduce younger players in 2026, they could be gone.

On Moore:

“Much like Pittman, Moore, 28, produced the lowest YPRR average (1.24) and PFF offense grade (68.7 PFF offense grade) among his eight NFL seasons and is surrounded by ascending, young talent. Moore is under contract through 2028 and is unlikely to be cut until 2027, should Chicago choose to do so. He finished as the WR30.

“Chicago’s remaining 11 personnel starting pass catchers are all 23 or younger. As detailed above, age is critical in high-end season-long receiving outcomes.

“Moore will likely operate as Chicago’s No. 4 pass catcher at best next season.”

The fact of the matter is that $20+ million is way too much to pay a number-four pass catching option. If Moore cannot improve in 2026, he will likely not be back in 2027.

On Swift:

“Swift, 27, admittedly assuaged these very same concerns from last offseason. Chicago’s seventh-round rookie, running back Kyle Monangai, 23, is already performing at a near-equivalent level despite Swift’s five-year edge in experience. Swift earned an 83.4 PFF offense grade and finished as the RB15 this season. Monangai earned a 67.3 PFF offense grade and finished as the RB29.

“During Chicago’s postseason play, Swift outsnapped Monangai in the green zone eight-to-seven, while totaling five rushing attempts to Monangai’s three rushing attempts and one target.

“Swift can maintain the primary passing down role with superior pass-protection play, but Monangai has a chance to take over as the team’s primary rusher and primary player in scoring position next season.”

PFF seems to think that Swift is safer than Moore. However, the fact remains that Swift is entering the final year of his contract in 2026 and, if Monangai continues to produce in a limited role, the Bears will let Swift walk in free agency.

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