The Bears might not be in “win-now” mode or ready to offload assets for a major splash at the 2025 trade deadline, but that doesn’t mean GM Ryan Poles can kick back and relax. The deadline — set for Tuesday, November 4 — is creeping closer, and there’s work to be done.
Regardless of where Chicago sits in the standings or what the long-term plan looks like, it would be beneficial to trade for a running back. Because let’s be honest — D’Andre Swift isn’t getting the job done.
The Case for Making a Move
The Bears currently have the second-longest average distance to go on third down of any team in football. Even with that handicap, they still own the fourth-best conversion rate on third down — which says more about Caleb Williams’ magic than the balance of the offense.
Swift’s production has simply been underwhelming. He ranks 41st in yards per touch, 102nd in expected points added (EPA), and 27th in yards created per touch this season. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Swift is averaging –0.39 expected yards per carry and 1.6 yards after contact per attempt. Those numbers suggest that while Swift has elite straight-line speed, he’s not maximizing the blocking in front of him — and Chicago has invested heavily in that offensive line.
The Bears need a back with vision and toughness — someone who can turn one-yard gains into four, who can lower his shoulder on second down and make third down manageable. We’re not asking for Jahmyr Gibbs here, but even a modest upgrade could make a major difference for Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson’s offense.
There are several intriguing running backs who could be available ahead of the deadline. And if the Bears focus on players in the final year of their contracts, they might find real value for a mid- or late-round pick. Here are three names that make sense.
Breece Hall — New York Jets
Breece Hall, a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, is in the final year of his rookie deal with the New York Jets. With New York sitting at 0–5, there’s little incentive for them to hold onto him past the deadline.
Hall has never eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards in a season, but the potential is obvious. His career average of 4.6 yards per carry is well above league average, and he’s sitting at 5.3 yards per carry in 2025. For comparison, Swift is averaging just 3.3 yards per attempt this year and 3.7 since arriving in Chicago.
Hall’s 0.71 rushing yards over expected per attempt might not be elite, but it’s solid — and most importantly, it’s consistent. That’s exactly what this Bears offense needs.
The Jets would be wise to move him, and Chicago could likely land Hall for a late-round pick. If he clicks in Ben Johnson’s system, maybe Poles considers a long-term extension.
Tony Pollard — Tennessee Titans
Like Hall, Tony Pollard is an attainable and logical fit. The veteran running back has been one of the few bright spots for a struggling Titans offense.
Pollard’s 1.8 yards after contact per attempt and proven vision between the tackles make him a steady, reliable option. Through five games, he’s averaging 65.6 rushing yards per game, which puts him on pace for over 1,100 yards — a mark that would be the best of his career and his fourth straight 1,000-yard season.
Pollard is under contract through 2025 on a three-year, $21.75 million deal, but none of that money is guaranteed beyond this season. That flexibility makes him especially appealing. Chicago could bring him back in 2026 for a $9.25 million cap hit, or walk away with zero dead money.
It’s low risk, high reward — and Pollard would immediately raise the floor of the Bears’ backfield.
De’Von Achane — Miami Dolphins
This one’s more of a long shot, but De’Von Achane might be the most exciting name on the list. The explosive Dolphins running back is still under his rookie deal through 2026, which makes a trade unlikely unless Miami fully resets its roster.
Achane offers many of the same traits as Swift — home-run speed, burst in space — but with noticeably better vision. His 2.4 yards after contact per attempt ranks fifth among all running backs this season, trailing only Javonte Williams, James Cook, Bijan Robinson, and Jonathan Taylor.
Even if he’s not a pure between-the-tackles grinder, Achane’s ability to turn small creases into big plays could add an entirely new dynamic to Chicago’s offense. If the Dolphins decide to sell off assets, Poles should at least pick up the phone.
Caleb Williams doesn’t need a superstar running back — he just needs support. The Bears’ offensive line is improving, the passing game is showing signs of life, and the defense is getting some reinforcements back from injury. What’s missing is a back who can keep drives on schedule and take pressure off the rookie QB.
Whether it’s Hall, Pollard, or the longshot Achane, adding a reliable runner at the deadline would not only balance the offense but accelerate Williams’ development. If Ryan Poles wants to make a subtle move that pays major dividends — this is the one.