Kyle Monangai Has Another Chance to Impress
Kyle Monangai, who rushed for 176 yards in his first start last week, might get another opportunity to showcase his skills this Sunday. Bears starter D’Andre Swift, who had been healthy earlier in the week, missed Friday’s practice due to personal reasons and is listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Giants.
Swift returned to full participation Thursday after limited practice Wednesday. He previously mentioned his intention to play despite dealing with a groin injury that kept him out the previous week. Should Swift be unable to compete, Monangai will step in again, aiming to build on his standout debut against the Bengals.
“Whatever I gotta do to help us win … if that’s what I gotta do, that’s what I gotta do,” Monangai said after practice. “I just gotta be prepared for whatever comes my way.”
Monangai’s 176-yard performance was the second-highest rushing total ever recorded by a Bears rookie running back.
“No one, on the coaching staff or personnel side, was surprised to see that,” coach Ben Johnson stated. “When you come into the building like he does and have his approach every day — whether it’s meetings, walk-throughs, or practice — you know exactly what you’re going to get. He’s a very consistent player.”
Running backs coach Eric Bieniemy, just an inch shorter than the 5-foot-8 Monangai, was asked if the rookie reminded him of himself as a player. He smiled and mentioned another comparison instead: Kareem Hunt.
Author’s Summary
Kyle Monangai could start again for the Bears if D’Andre Swift is sidelined, looking to build on his record-setting debut and growing reputation for work ethic and consistency.