Bears Turn to Rookie Kyle Monangai and Newcomer Brittain Brown Amid Injury-Driven Backfield Shakeup

The Chicago Bears enter Week 9 as one of the NFL’s most unpredictable teams — capable of both dominance and disappointment. After a dismal 0-2 start, Chicago rebounded with four consecutive wins to vault into the NFC playoff conversation, driven by improving quarterback play from Caleb Williams and a turnover-hungry defense. Yet that progress took a hit last week with a 33-16 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens, dropping the team to 4-3 and reviving concerns about its consistency.

Now, as the Bears prepare for a pivotal road matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, they face a new challenge: a depleted backfield. Both DeAndre Swift and Roschon Johnson have been ruled out with injuries, forcing Chicago to dig deep into its reserves. In response, the Bears elevated Brittain Brown from the practice squad, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The decision underscores Chicago’s injury woes at running back — a position that has been central to the offense’s resurgence. Swift’s versatility and Johnson’s power have complemented Caleb Williams’ development, and their absence leaves the team relying on unproven options. Brown, who has not appeared in a game since 2022, represents the next man up in an evolving depth chart.

Head coach Matt Eberflus emphasized adaptability ahead of Sunday’s matchup. “Injuries are part of the game,” he said. “We have confidence in everyone in that locker room. It’s an opportunity for others to step up and make an impact.”

1. Brittain Brown Gets Another Shot at the NFL Stage

For Brittain Brown, Sunday could mark the next chapter in a career defined by persistence. A seventh-round pick by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, Brown has yet to record a rushing attempt in an NFL regular-season game. After spending time on the Raiders’ and Seahawks’ practice squads, he joined the Bears earlier this year in hopes of reigniting his professional journey. Brown’s elevation this week comes amid necessity rather than design, but it presents an opportunity to prove he belongs. The 26-year-old out of UCLA is known for his physical running style and patience behind the line — traits that could complement Chicago’s zone-blocking scheme. Despite his lack of experience, teammates and coaches have praised Brown’s preparation. Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron noted that Brown “has done everything right since arriving,” adding that his “work ethic and readiness” have earned him a chance to contribute. While expectations are measured, Brown’s potential debut adds intrigue to a Bears team still searching for offensive rhythm. Even limited touches against a struggling Cincinnati defense could be enough to give the Bears valuable depth moving forward.

2. Rookie Monangai Set to Lead Chicago’s Rushing Attack

Though Brown’s promotion makes headlines, rookie running back Kyle Monangai will shoulder the primary workload against the Bengals. A seventh-round pick in 2025, Monangai has impressed in limited action, tallying 186 rushing yards and a touchdown on 46 carries. His strong performance near the goal line has earned the trust of the coaching staff, positioning him as the temporary lead back. Monangai’s physicality and burst between the tackles fit well with Chicago’s run-first offensive identity. The Rutgers product has shown steady improvement in pass protection and decision-making — skills that will be vital with a young quarterback under center. Sunday’s game offers him his first true opportunity to operate as the feature back. The matchup against Cincinnati presents a favorable backdrop for both Monangai and Brown. The Bengals rank last in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game (151.9) and 28th in yards allowed per carry (5.0). Chicago’s offensive line, which has quietly improved since Week 3, will look to capitalize on those weaknesses. If Monangai can establish an early rhythm, it could open up the Bears’ passing game and help Caleb Williams settle in against an aggressive Cincinnati defense. The rookie’s success on the ground may prove pivotal in determining whether Chicago regains its winning form.

3. Chicago’s Opportunity to Reclaim Momentum

The Bears’ Week 9 clash against the Bengals represents more than just another game — it’s a test of resilience. After a promising midseason surge, Chicago’s recent loss to Baltimore served as a reminder of how narrow the margins are in a competitive NFC race. With Swift and Johnson sidelined, the spotlight shifts to Monangai and Brown to sustain the team’s offensive balance. A strong rushing performance would not only relieve pressure on Williams but also reaffirm the Bears’ identity as a physical, opportunistic team capable of grinding out wins. Defensively, Chicago must continue forcing turnovers to compensate for offensive uncertainty. The Bears entered Week 8 leading the league in takeaways — a trend that could help them stay competitive even with a patchwork offense. A victory in Cincinnati would reaffirm the Bears’ status as playoff contenders and demonstrate the depth of their roster. For Monangai and Brown, it’s a chance to prove that Chicago’s next-man-up mentality can keep its season on track.