On the heels of an incredibly disappointing season, the Chicago Bears have begun reaching out to candidates for their head coach opening.
Chicago fired Matt Eberflus on November 29, 2024, following a Thanksgiving Day loss to the Detroit Lions. In two-plus seasons as head coach, Eberflus led the Bears to a 14-32 record. He also failed to improve the locker room culture.
Interim head coach Thomas Brown went 1-4 after taking over for Eberflus — with Brown’s first win coming in the season finale against the rival Green Bay Packers. The Bears are hoping to find a coach capable of turning around the fortunes of the franchise while also furthering the development of Caleb Williams.
On Monday, reports began to emerge linking Chicago to multiple candidates. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Bears have sought permission to speak with current Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, but added that the Cowboys have not responded to Chicago’s request.
While McCarthy’s contract expires Wednesday, Dallas has exclusive negotiating rights through January 14. A former Super Bowl champion, McCarthy has stated his desire to return to the Cowboys. McCarthy has led Dallas to the playoffs three times and holds a 1-3 playoff record. In the regular season, McCarthy is 49-35 with the team.
In addition to McCarthy, Chicago has reportedly requested permission to speak with numerous coaches including Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson — the top candidate on the market — Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Broncos DC Vance Joseph, Giants OC Mike Kafka, Cardinals OC Drew Petzing, Vikings DC Brian Flores, Ravens OC Todd Monken, Steelers OC Arthur Smith, Bills OC Joe Brady, and former Stanford head coach David Shaw.
Johnson is widely viewed as Chicago’s top choice due to his success building Detroit’s offense, but the Bears will have competition around the league for Johnson’s services. Former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel is also seen as a top candidate if Chicago opts for a defensive-minded coach. A few weeks ago, reports emerged stating that Pete Carroll has an interest in coaching the Bears and that the organization was intrigued by a meeting with the Super Bowl-winning coach.
One thing is certain — whoever lands the gig will have a tall task ahead of him. The Bears finished the year 5-12 and in last place in the NFC North. Meanwhile, Detroit (15-2), Minnesota (14-3) and Green Bay (11-6) all reached the postseason and are poised to contend for years to come.
