The D’Andre Swift era in Detroit ended abruptly during the 2023 NFL draft. After selecting versatile Alabama blazer Jahmyr Gibbs with the No. 12 overall pick, the Lions quickly traded Swift to the Philadelphia Eagles.
It was a move that caught Swift, a Philadelphia-area native, off-guard.
“It was a surprise,” Swift told reporters in Philadelphia this week. “There really was no explanation. Everything went through my agent. A lot of different emotions going up and down.”
Swift struggled to produce consistently in his three seasons in Detroit. He flashed with some agility and receiving ability, but Swift topped 85 yards rushing just four times in three seasons. He also battled numerous injuries that sidelined him for a total of nine games but limited his effectiveness and availability in many others.
Despite the stunning reality of being traded, Swift sure doesn’t seem bitter or resentful at Detroit or the Lions organization. Swift squashed any reports about sour grapes on his part directed at the Lions or Detroit fans during his Eagles’ introductory press conference.
“I’m excited to be here, but first and foremost, I thank Detroit for everything,” Swift said. “To the city of Detroit, I’ll forever have a place in my heart. I love them for the opportunity they gave me to just go out there and live out my dreams.”
Swift didn’t stop there.
“I thank the city of Detroit, my teammates, the training staff, everybody in the building from top to bottom, for everything they gave me for the last three years.”
Rookie defensive back Brian Branch will now wear Swift’s familiar No. 32 in Detroit.
