Kyle Monangai missed his third straight game as the Chicago Bears edged the New England Patriots 30-24 in a Thursday night clash at Soldier Field. The second-year running back was sidelined with thumb and toe injuries, leaving D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson to carry the rushing burden.
Monangai’s absence was significant given his efficient production earlier this season. Through four appearances, he had rushed for 324 yards on 60 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per carry with three touchdowns. His injuries first surfaced after Chicago’s 23-12 win over the New York Jets on October 4, when he sustained a toe injury that was later compounded by a thumb issue.
Coach Ben Johnson described Monangai’s status as week-to-week before the game and noted that the running back was progressing. However, Chicago’s limited practice sessions during the short preparation for the Week 7 matchup meant participation reports were estimates. Monangai was listed as a nonparticipant through the week and was officially ruled out on game day.
Without Monangai, Swift assumed most of the backfield responsibilities. Entering the contest, Swift led the Bears with 398 rushing yards on 94 carries and six touchdowns, complemented by 18 receptions for 140 yards. Against New England, he carried 22 times for 78 yards and scored one touchdown. He also caught four passes for 12 yards, finishing with 26 touches overall. Swift’s workload pushed his season rushing total to 476 yards and seven touchdowns over seven games.
Roschon Johnson’s role remained limited. Before the game, Johnson had 73 yards on 22 attempts and one touchdown. He added two carries for 13 yards against the Patriots, bringing his season totals to 86 yards on 24 carries with a touchdown. Chicago leaned heavily on Swift, confirming the latter’s position as the primary rushing option in Monangai’s absence.
The Bears’ ground game faced a crucial test given their recent struggles without Monangai. Chicago had failed to reach 100 rushing yards in each of their previous two games. Against New England, the offense improved to 116 net rushing yards. Aside from Swift’s 78 yards, additional contributions came from Jaylen Williams, Johnson, and Luther Burden III, who combined for 38 yards on the ground.
Chicago controlled possession for 32 minutes and 24 seconds, holding the ball for over 12 minutes in the fourth quarter. This control helped the Bears secure the 30-24 victory, improving their record to 5-2. The Patriots fell to 4-3, missing starting guards Alijah Vera-Tucker and Ben Brown along with cornerback Carlton Davis III due to injury. Vera-Tucker was placed on injured reserve before the game, while Brown and Davis were inactive on game day.
The Bears also dealt with their own injury concerns. Besides Monangai, linebacker Jack Sanborn was ruled out. Linebacker T.J. Edwards was listed as doubtful and did not play, while cornerback Tyrique Stevenson was questionable but remained active. Despite these absences, Chicago managed 402 total yards, narrowly edging New England’s 391 yards.
Quarterback Jaylen Williams completed 22 of 33 passes for 308 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Chicago’s offense balanced the passing and rushing attack effectively, compensating for the missing Monangai.
Monangai’s injury left a noticeable gap, but the Bears’ depth allowed them to adapt. Swift’s volume carried the running game, while Johnson provided limited support. The victory kept Chicago atop the NFC North standings as they prepare for their next challenge with Monangai still sidelined.
According to Yahoo Sports.