The Chicago Bears may have quietly found one of the biggest steals from last year’s rookie class, and now people around the league are finally starting to notice. According to a recent breakdown from Bleacher Report, second-year running back Kyle Monangai was named the Bears’ “best-kept secret” heading into the 2026 season.

Honestly, it’s not hard to see why.

While most of the attention around Chicago’s offense continues to focus on Caleb Williams and new head coach Ben Johnson, Monangai quietly put together one of the most efficient rookie seasons among NFL running backs last year. He finished with 783 rushing yards and averaged 4.6 yards per carry, ranking near the top of his draft class despite entering the league with almost no hype compared to bigger-name backs.

What makes Monangai stand out is the style he brings to the offense. He runs with violence, toughness, and physicality between the tackles — something Chicago’s backfield has been missing consistently. While D’Andre Swift gives the Bears speed and versatility, Monangai brings the power element that can wear defenses down late in games.

And that’s why some people inside NFL circles are beginning to wonder if the Bears could eventually transition toward Monangai becoming the more featured back in this offense.

Not necessarily a traditional “bell cow” running back handling 70% of the workload every week, but potentially the more trusted physical runner in a two-back system. According to the discussion surrounding the roster, Chicago may lean closer to a 50-50 split between Swift and Monangai this season, especially if Monangai continues developing the way coaches expect.

The really interesting part is what happens AFTER this season.

Because Swift is entering a contract year, and there’s growing speculation that the Bears could make major changes to the running back room in 2027. Some around the team believe Chicago may eventually pursue a bigger star at the position through the draft, free agency, or even a blockbuster trade if the right opportunity appears.

But regardless of what happens long-term, one thing is becoming clear:

Kyle Monangai is no longer just a hidden developmental player buried on the depth chart.

He’s becoming a serious part of Chicago’s future plans.

And honestly, Bears fans are starting to realize they may have found something special in the seventh round.