The Chicago Bears still lead the NFL in rushing at 154.3 yards per game, but their ground production has dropped sharply over the last three games. After averaging nearly 200 yards in their first four contests, the Bears gained a combined 295 rushing yards against the Packers, Falcons and Patriots — fewer than 100 per game.
Despite the decline, Chicago has won its last two games behind quarterback Caleb Williams, who threw for more than 300 yards in each victory over Atlanta and New England, with the offense scoring 31 and 30 points. The Bears now face a Monday night test at Seattle, where the Seahawks held Kansas City to 50 rushing yards in a 20-3 win last weekend.
The three-game dip coincides with the loss of running back Kyle Monangai to a toe injury. Monangai rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns on 30 carries in his last appearance against the Jets. Coach Johnson described him as week-to-week. In his absence, Roschon Johnson has taken on more work and the Bears signed Zavier Scott to the active roster. D'Andre Swift remains productive but has not reached 100 rushing yards since his 124-yard opener against Carolina; he ran 22 times for 78 yards and a touchdown against New England.
Williams acknowledged at a Wednesday press conference that Seattle's defense limits deep plays, forcing offenses to stay patient and protect the football. Johnson noted the Seahawks can pressure the quarterback with four rushers, keeping extra defenders in coverage. A reliable running game would help create manageable downs and prevent Seattle from focusing solely on Williams.
Additional complications include penalties that have hurt Chicago in recent games and the season-ending injury to tight end Cole Kmet, a dependable blocker. Rookie Sam Roush is set for more playing time, and Johnson has mentioned using Ozzy Trapilo as a sixth lineman in some formations.
The Bears do not need to match their season rushing average to beat Seattle, but timely gains on early downs and after penalties will be crucial to giving Williams options. The game will reveal whether the recent decline is a temporary stretch or a problem that must be solved.
