Category Archives: News

News

Justin Fields Sends Message to Bears Front Office Amid Trade Rumors

Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields is over it.

All of the talk about his current team’s plans led the former No. 11 overall pick to unfollow them and the NFL on Instagram. Of course, it was only the unfollowing of the Bears that caused a big stir on social media. Many took that as a sign of Fields’ resignation to his fate with trade rumors swirling around him and the team.

In reality, he just wants to know what his fate is.

Bears’ Justin Fields on Trade Rumors: ‘Just Let Me Know’

Justin Fields Wants to Stay With Bears

“Of course I want to stay,” Fields said on the “St. Brown Brothers” podcast on February 21. “To be honest, bro, I’ll be trying to – with all the talk, it’s hard to I guess kind of just, boom, be in one place. But I can’t see myself playing in another place. But I know how the league is.

“If it was up to me, I would want to stay in Chicago. I love the city. The city’s lit. The fans, they’re great, and the people. But it’s a business. I ain’t got no control over it. So whatever happens happens. But I feel like the biggest thing with all this going on right now, I just want it to be over. Just let me know if I’m getting traded. Let me know if I’m staying, this and that.”

The Bears have remained mum on their plans. But Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer noted that they haven’t shopped Fields in trade talks despite his drawing interest.

He is still under contract for another season.

The Bears also don’t have to decide on his fifth-year option until May, giving them some leeway in how they operate. Though it stands to reason that they too would like to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

Bears ‘Haven’t Shopped’ Justin Fields in Trade Talks: Report

Justin Fields Downplays Social Media Firestorm

Expectations are that the Bears will select Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in April. What that means for Fields has been the subject of even further consternation.

But his social media activity is not the clue some believed it to be.

“Why do people take social media so serious?” Fields said. “I still mess with the Bears and that. I’m just trying to take a little break. I unfollowed the Bears and the NFL, bro. I’m not just trying to have football on my timeline.”

“It’s something that I don’t want to see in my timeline. I’m about to go on vacation. I don’t want to see no football. And guess what? Every Bears post, it’s either ‘We want Fields’ or ‘Draft Caleb.’ So it’s like, bruh. Man, I’m tired of hearing the talk.”

That is not likely to put any of the rumors to bed. Then again, those roiled even before Fields’ social media habits became front-page news.

Justin Fields Praises Falcons Weapons Amid Bears Trade Rumors

Fields is said to have a fan in Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. But rumors also link the Georgia native to his hometown Atlanta Falcons, who could also be in the market to upgrade at quarterback.

So, what does Fields think of his potential future supporting cast?

“Atlanta would be tough,” Fields said. “The only con of going back home is just people hit my phone crazy, wanting tickets to the game. But I think they got a lot of playmakers on the team.

Of course, Bijan [Robinson], they got my boy Kyle [Pitts], and then, of course, Drake [Londo] too. They probably need one more receiver. But they definitely got some guys over there, and their defense was good … last year and this year.

“Jesse [Bates] went crazy this year.”

News

Bears Cut 2 Pro Bowlers, Clear $21.5 Million in Cap Space

The Chicago Bears made their first roster moves of what figures to be an active offseason, parting with two veterans.

“The #Bears have released veterans S Eddie Jackson and OL Cody Whitehair, who had combined salary cap numbers of roughly $32M,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on February 15. “Even more cap space for Chicago.”

Bears Cut Eddie Jackson, Cody Whitehair

Eddie Jackson, Cody Whitehair Earned Pro Bowl Trips as Bears

The Bears selected Jackson with the No. 112 overall pick in 2017. A two-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro, Jackson’s Bears career concludes with 459 total tackles, 15 interceptions, 10 forced fumbles, six recoveries, three touchdowns, and 2.0 sacks.

Jackson spoke candidly about his future while accepting the “Jeff Dickerson Good Guy Award,” which is handed out by Bears media.

He also shared a post seemingly hinting at this possibility on X in recent days.

Teammates, especially younger ones in the secondary, have praised Jackson’s leadership over the years, this past season included. He proved vital in helping them navigate their 2-6 start to the season.

Jackson had battled back from a foot injury that cut his 2022 campaign short. Injuries had become a theme toward the end of his Bears tenure.

Whitehair was the second longest-tenured Bear behind long snapper Patrick Scales.

The No. 56 overall pick in 2016, Whitehair was a starter from Day 1, logging four consecutive seasons of full slates. He’s missed seven games in his career, though his play seemingly slipped over the last two seasons, leading coaches to replace him with Lucas Patrick at center.

Whitehair resurfaced, filling in for Teven Jenkins at guard. But he joins Jackson in free agency.

Bears Clear More Cap Space

“Releasing guard Cody Whitehair and safety Eddie Jackson today will save the Bears approximately $21.5 million against the salary cap,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter posted.

Chicago entered the offseason with $49.1 million in cap space before this deal.

They now have north of $70 million, the third most in the NFL this offseason, per Spotrac. And they could still create even more space if they wanted. It wouldn’t be a cut, but a restructure could lower wide receiver DJ Moore’s $16.8 million cap hit as he heads into Year 3 of his three-year, $61.9 million contract.

The Bears do have to factor in a potential contract for cornerback Jaylon Johnson too. Spotrac projects Johnson to command a deal worth $15.7 million annually, which means today’s transactions could prove key.

The moves also create at least one hole in the starting depth chart.

Bears Need New Starting Safety, Maybe Center

The Bears have youngster Elijah Hicks on hand to replace Jackson. He filled in for Jackson multiple times in 2023.

It would also not be surprising to see them spend another premium pick on the position. They did with Jaquan Brisker in 2022 and that decision has worked out so far. They could even try one of their young corners at safety – Terell Smith comes to mind.

Patrick is also a free agent this offseason.

He performed better at center than Whitehair, who transitioned back to his Pro Bowl position after five years at guard.

Nothing is definitive about what the Bears plan to do with Patrick. But they could be looking for a starting center and a starting safety this offseason.

News

Bears Free Agent Jaylon Johnson Gets Honest About Next Contract

Chicago Bears free agent cornerback Jaylon Johnson is going get paid handsomely this offseason. Coming off his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro campaign, it’s only a matter of when, not if it will happen.

The only other question is whether or not the Bears and General Manager Ryan Poles will be the ones to pay him.

As far as Johnson is concerned, they had better.

“Heart’s definitely in Chicago, mind’s definitely on the money,” Johnson said, per NFL.com’s Grant Gordon on February 4. “So, I mean, we’ll figure out if we can make them both come together and get something done. I’m looking forward to see what’s to come.”

Bears CB Jaylon Johnson’s Mind is ‘Definitely on the Money’

Ryan Poles: Jaylon Johnson ‘Not Going Anywhere’

The Bears originally selected Johnson, 24, with the No. 50 overall pick in 2020. He finished this past season as Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded starting cornerback.

He snagged a career-high four interceptions, scoring on one, and adding one forced fumble.

“We have really good communication,” Poles said during his season-ending press conference on January 10. “The big thing was just kind of take a break here after this season, and then we’ll start talks again. I feel really good about that situation. Jaylon’s not going to go anywhere, and we’ll work through to get something done.”

Montez Sweat Sends Message on Jaylon Johnson After Bears Beat Vikings

Bears Have Options to Keep Jaylon Johnson

A new contract for Johnson won’t be cheap. Spotrac projects his market value to come in around $15.7 million annually. But that amount would just nudge out Carlton Davis of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for 10th most in the NFL.

That could lead to some contentious points in negotiations if Poles starts that low in his initial offer.

The Bears can also use the franchise tag.

That would cost the Bears $18.8 million, which would rank sixth in terms of annual value. But because it is a one-year pact, it does not offer the kind of security players in Johnson’s position often seek.

Cornerback a Position of Strength for Bears

The Bears aren’t exactly negotiating from a position of weakness. Johnson has rightfully declared himself among the game’s best, something opponents have done for some time, including New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

And the Bears should be able to pay him with the eighth-most cap space in the league this offseason.

But they have drafted well in preparation for this moment.

They drafted Kyler Gordon in 2022, and he has already flashed as a budding star inside. He has also noted a desire to move back outside if the situation permits it. The Bears drafted Tyrique Stevenson and Terell Smith last year, and both players flashed this season too.

Johnson entered the year carrying injury and playmaking concerns. He eliminated one of the latter, though he still has yet to play a full NFL season.

How this situation resolves itself remains one of the league’s biggest storylines.

News, Rumors

Bears Fill Final Position Coach Vacancy With Shane Waldron Cohort: Report

The Chicago Bears coaching staff has taken shape with the hiring of former NFL running back Chad Morton as their running backs coach, per the Chicago Sun-Times’s Jason Leiser on January 31.

Morton spent seven seasons in the NFL, mostly with the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets. He was listed as a running back but he operated mostly as a return man. He is the younger brother of former Detroit Lions wide receiver Johnnie Morton.

Bears Hiring Chad Morton as RBs Coach: Report

Coaching Staff Takes Shape

The 46-year-old Morton spent the past three seasons with new Offensive Coordinator Shane Waldron with the Seattle Seahawks.

Morton’s hiring filled the final position coaching job on the staff. But the Bears were not done.

They also hired former Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Thomas Brown to be their passing game coordinator, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero on January 31. Brown worked with Waldron for one season with the Los Angeles Rams.

Chicago hired former Los Angeles Chargers wide receivers coach Chris Beatty to be their wide receivers coach, per ESPN’s Courtney Cronin.

Beatty coached star wideout DJ Moore in college at Maryland.

Bears WR DJ Moore is a Model of Consistency

New Coaching Staff Could Mean Continuity for the Future

This brings the total number of new coaches/coordinators to six with Brown’s spot being a newly-created position this season. It could also serve to set up a succession plan should Waldron become a head coaching candidate next season.

That is always a concern with defensive head coaches like Matt Eberflus.

However, Brown already arrives highly regarded as an offensive coordinator, per Pelissero. And quarterback coach Kerry Joseph will call plays at this year’s Senior Bowl.

That all counts on the head coach remaining in place, which of course means getting, among other things, the quarterback position right this offseason. With Justin Fields on the roster and the No. 1 overall pick in hand, that looms above everything else the Bears have done and will do this offseason.

News

Bears Hiring Eric Washington as New Defensive Coordinator

The Chicago Bears filled their other coordinator spot.

“The #Bears hired Eric Washington as their defensive coordinator, per source,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on January 27.

“Matt Eberflus will continue to call plays in Chicago. But this is a big hire with the highly regarded Washington, 54, who is entering his 17th season as an NFL assistant and second stint in Chicago.”

“My family and I are beyond excited to be returning to the Chicago Bears,” Washington said, per Larry Mayer of ChicagoBears.com on January 27. “It is humbling to have the opportunity to contribute to one of the most esteemed sports organizations in the world! I thank God and I appreciate Coach Eberflus, the Bears front office, and the McCaskey family for entrusting me with this responsibility.”

Bears Add Bills Asst. HC Eric Washington as Defensive Coordinator

Who is Eric Washington?

Washington spent three seasons in Chicago, first as the Bears’ assistant defensive line coach and then as defensive line coach under former Bears head coach Lovie Smith.

Before that, the 54-year-old Shreveport, Louisiana native spent eight seasons in the college ranks, including four years with Northwestern, mostly working with the defensive line. After Chicago, Washington spent nine seasons with the Carolina Panthers.

His final two seasons with Carolina were as defensive coordinator under former Panthers head coach (and Bears defensive coordinator under Smith) Ron Rivera.

Those teams ranked 19th in yards and 25th in points on average.

Washington spent the last four seasons with the Buffalo Bills. He again worked closest with the defensive line. But he added the title of Assistant Head Coach – Defense this past season. The Bills have the eighth-most sacks over the last four years and the fourth-most in 2023.

The most encouraging part of the hire could be what it means for the development of second-year defensive tackles Gervon Dexter Sr. and Zacch Pickens.

‘Florida Water’: Bears Rookie Duo Continues Promising Trend for GM Ryan Poles

Next Steps for Bears Defensive Coordinator Eric Washington

Having worked with three former defensive-minded head coaches in the NFL, Washington is likely comfortable at least having input on the gameplan and play-calling. His experience as Assistant Head Coach should help with some of the CEO-like aspects of the Head Coaching position as well.

As it was for offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, the Bears retained several position coaches before hiring Washington.

Cornerbacks/Passing Game Coordinator Jon Hoke, Defensive Line Coach Travis Smith, Linebackers Coach Dave Borgonzi, Safeties Coach Andre Curtis, as well as several assistant coaches are back for 2024.

Bears Hire New QB Coach

While the Bears retained Offensive Line Coach Chris Morgan and Tight Ends Coach Jim Dray, they brought in former Seahawks Assistant Quarterbacks Coach Kerry Joseph to be their new Quarterbacks Coach.

Joseph also comes highly regarded and was an accomplished quarterback in the CFL.

He played with a style that closely resembled Justin Fields and Caleb Williams, the most likely options for Bears starting quarterback at this juncture.

News, Rumors

Bears Hiring Shane Waldron as Next Offensive Coordinator: Report

After interviewing a handful of candidates, the Chicago Bears have a new offensive coordinator.

“The #Bears are working towards a deal to hire Shane Waldron as their new offensive coordinator, per sources,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on January 22.

“Waldron, 44, spent the past three seasons as Seattle’s OC. Now he’s expected to land in Chicago, which owns the No. 1 pick with a big question looming at QB.”

Shane Waldron Joining Bears as Offensive Coordinator

Bears OC Shane Waldron Has Extensive Background

Waldron was the first reported candidate interviewed for the position, with Pelissero the first with that news as well. In his 20th year coaching, and 10th year coaching in the NFL, Waldron has plenty of experience, including five seasons in multiple roles under Sean McVay with the Los Angeles Rams.

He is one of five candidates that the Bears interviewed who has direct ties to McVay.

But Waldron’s list of bosses also includes his former boss Pete Carroll, former Washington Redskins head coach Jay Gruden, perhaps the greatest coach of all time in Bill Belichick in his career.

What to Expect from Shane Waldron’s Offense

Waldron’s best statistical season as a play-caller came in 2022 when the Seahawks finished ninth in points and 13th in yards.

Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith finished fourth in the NFL in touchdown passes and eighth in passing yards. Smith also won the AP Comeback Player of the Year, leading the Seahawks to a Wild Card berth.

This past season was not as magical.

Smith finished 16th in passing yards and 18th in touchdowns, and the Seahawks failed to make the playoffs despite an identical 9-8 record.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see some of the other candidates, namely former Seahawks quarterbacks coach Greg Olson, linked to roles with the Bears under Waldron.

What Shane Waldron’s Hiring Means for Bears’ QB Decision

For now, Waldron’s hiring doesn’t tip the Bears’ hand in either direction when it comes to holding onto Justin Fields or moving on to Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, etc. Waldron’s experience has mostly been with pocket passers.

But Smith and Russell Wilson are both mobile quarterbacks who earned Pro Bowl trips under Waldron.

And don’t overlook the reclamation aspect of Smith’s story in this particular discussion.

This doesn’t necessarily lend itself to either path, though. The Bears still have all of their options available with plenty of time to make their decision. This is a competitive roster. The locker room also supports Fields, who was at the team’s facilities working out.

That likely means even less for his future since he is still under contract. But, if Poles is keeping Fields, perhaps it is a sign. We might have to wait until the draft in April to know for sure, though.

News, Rumors

Bears Defensive Coordinator Interview Live Tracker: Who Fits With Matt Eberflus?

For all of the attention the Chicago Bears’ search for their next offensive coordinator has gotten in recent weeks following the firing of Luke Getsy, they also need a defensive coordinator.

Head Coach Matt Eberflus took over play-calling duties after Allen Williams resigned ahead of their Week 3 showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The defense trended up with Eberflus in his element plus Phil Snow’s addition.

Eberflus has also credited the addition of Senior Defensive Assistant Phil Snow. He is also open to calling plays again in 2024. That is something to keep in mind as the Bears kicked off their search with a familiar face.

Chicago Bears Defensive Coordinator Live Tracker 2024

Defensive Coordinator Candidates Set to Interview With Bears

Chris Harris – Defensive Passing Game Coordinator/CBs Coach – Carolina Panthers

“#Titans defensive pass game coordinator/CBs coach Chris Harris will interview for the #Bears defensive coordinator job, per source,” NFL Network’s Pelisero reported on X, formerly Twitter, on January 21. “A onetime Bears draft pick who became a highly respected player in Chicago, Harris also interviewed for the #Jaguars DC job this past week.”

The Bears selected Harris in the sixth round of the 2005 draft. He became a key piece of their Super Bowl run in 2006 under former head coach Lovie Smith. He spent four seasons with the Bears in two stints separated by three seasons in Carolina.

Harris was the defensive backs coach with the Washington Commanders for three seasons. He was the assistant secondary coach with the Los Angeles Chargers before that.

Harris began his coaching career as a defensive quality control coach with the Bears in 2013.

His addition would add a rising coaching candidate who might be comfortable at least sharing input from Eberflus calling plays. At the same time, his familiarity with the defense could also lead to a smoother transition of playcalling duties from the head coach.

Terrell Williams – Asst. Head Coach – Defense/Defensive Line Coach – Tennessee Titans

“#Titans assistant head coach/defensive line coach Terrell Williams will interview with the #Bears for their defensive coordinator job, source says,” NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported in a post on X on January 22. “Williams will be the head coach of the American team in the @seniorbowl next week, so his work is getting noticed across the league.”

Williams’ coaching career began at the community college level in 1998. He entered the NFL ranks in 2012 with the then-Oakland Raiders.

After four seasons there and three seasons with the Miami Dolphins, Williams joined the Titans in 2018. He had them No. 1 in run defense in 2022. This past season, the unit ranked 13 in rush yards allowed. But they were fourth in rushing touchdowns.

Coaching under a defensive mind in Mike Vrabel, Williams’ role outside of the line is unclear.

But he is respected within the Titans organization. He also helped turn Jonathan Simmons into one of the more disruptive presences in the defensive trenches.

Eric Washington – Asst. HC/DL Coach – Buffalo Bills

“The Bears requested permission to interview Bills assistant head coach/defensive line Eric Washington for their defensive coordinator position, source says,” CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones reported on X on January 25. “He previously coached in Chicago. Buffalo’s defense produced 54 sacks this year and is consistently one of the NFL’s best.”

Washington spent three seasons with the Bears from 2008 through the 2010 season, as Assistant Defensive Line Coach (2008-09) and Defensive Line Coach.

He also spent four seasons with Northwestern as their defensive coordinator.

Washington has coached the defensive line in some capacity since entering the league in ‘08, save for a two-year stint as the Panthers defensive coordinator. His defense was 15th in yards and 19th in points in his first season.

But the unit bottomed out with the run game in his second season. He has worked under a defensive-minded head coach in Sean McDermott too, potentially an asset in this situation.

Joe Barry – DC – Green Bay Packers

“Former Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry will interview for jobs on the defensive staffs for both the Philadelphia Eagles and Chicago Bears, per sources,” ESPN’s Dianna Russini reported on X on January 26. “Philly up first…”

Barry spent the last three seasons calling the Packers’ defense.

His first season was the best, with the Packers ranking ninth in yards and 13th in scoring. The Packers’ scoring defense was even better this past season, ranking 10th. But Barry’s defense has also ranked slightly below average in passing yards allowed and 26th or worse against the run in each of the last two seasons.

He would also be following in the wake of former Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy – who is interviewing for the same role with the Las Vegas Raiders.

News, Rumors

Bears Offensive Coordinator Interview Live Tracker: Who Will Call Plays in 2024?

This offseason is critical for the Chicago Bears as they look for a new voice of their offense for 2024 and, they hope, beyond.

Will this new person be calling plays for Justin Fields? A rookie in Caleb Williams or Drake Maye, perhaps? Regardless, the Bears need this move to pay off and, in light of team president Kevin Warren’s assertion that they will be deliberate in their decisions, it’s probably a good idea to keep a running list of the potential candidates to replace the dismissed Luke Getsy.

Chicago Bears Offensive Coordinator Live Tracker

Offensive Coordinators Set to Interview With Bears

Shane Waldron – OC – Seattle Seahawks

“The #Bears requested an interview with #Seahawks offensive coordinator Shane Waldron for their OC job, per source,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on January 10. “With Pete Carroll out, Seattle’s assistants are now available, and Chicago is moving quickly after making a change today.”

Waldron has three years of experience as a play-caller, all of which have been with Seattle.

He’s sent Russell Willson (twice) and then Geno Smith to the Pro Bowl in each of those seasons, bolstering his resume. His offense’s ranked 14th in points and 18th in yards on average, peaking in 2021 at ninth and 13th, respectively.

During Smith’s run to Comeback Player of the Year, the Seahawks ranked fourth in touchdown passes and 11th in passing yards.

Klint Kubiak – Passing Game Coordinator – San Francisco 49ers

“#Bears plan to interview #49ers passing game coordinator Klint Kubiak for their OC job, per sources,” reported ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on January 12.

Kubiak comes with more name cache than Waldron. His father, Gary, is a Super Bowl-winning head coach and is highly respected around the league. Klint Kubiak’s experience calling plays also comes less recently than Waldron’s.

The younger Kubiak called plays for the Minnesota Vikings in 2021 under former head coach Mike Zimmer.

Minnesota ranked ninth in passing touchdowns and 11th in yards that season.

Like Waldron, Kubiak’s offense was average at best in the run game, a potential change of direction for the Bears who lead the NFL in rushing yards over the last two seasons.

Liam Coen – OC – University of Kentucky

“The Bears plan to interview Kentucky offensive coordinator/QBs coach Liam Coen for their vacant OC position, source says,” reported Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports on January 12 Coen was the OC for the Rams in 2022.

Coen spent two of the last three seasons as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Kentucky. His teams finished 36th and 58th in points per game.

He coached Will Levis, this year’s No. 33 overall pick by the Tennessee Titans too. His NFL offense was bottom-tier, though.

Coen and the rest of the reported future interviewees have all come from either the Kyle Shanahan or Sean McVay coaching trees, two of the more successful groups in recent seasons, including Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur and Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, both of whom worked under McVay with the Los Angeles Rams.

McVay and Shanahan’s connection goes back to their days working in the Washington Commanders organization.

Greg Roman – OC – Last with Baltimore Ravens

“The Chicago Bears interviewed Greg Roman for their vacant OC job today, per source,” NFL Network’s Peter Schrager said in a post on X on January 15.

Roman comes with the most experience as an NFL playcaller among the Bears’ previously reported interviewees. He is also the first to not come from the Mike Shanahan or Gary Kubiak coaching trees.

Roman’s four years with the Baltimore Raves saw him organize offenses that peaked at No. 1 in points and No. 2 in yards, though both came in his first season.

The Ravens’ scoring offense dropped in each subsequent season while their yards fluctuated.

But he also helped turn Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson – to whom Fields has been compared – into an MVP. Before that he got former San Franciso 49ers star Colin Kaepernick to play at a Super Bowl level.

He had a two-year stint with the Buffalo Bills mixed in.

Greg Olson – QB Coach – Seattle Seahawks

“The Bears interviewed former Raiders OC Greg Olson, most recently the Seahawks’ QB coach, for their vacant OC job Friday,” The San Francisco Chronicle’s Michael Silver wrote in a post on X  on January 13.

Olson has 14 years of experience as an offensive coordinator, including his first season in 2005 under former Bears head coach Dick Jauron with the Detroit Lions.

Olson’s last role came in 2021 and his last time working under a defensive-minded head coach was in 2016 under Gus Bradley with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

His offenses have ranked no better than 15th in points and 11th (twice) in yards.

Thomas Brown – OC – Carolina Panthers

“Panthers offensive coordinator Thomas Brown is meeting with the Bears today about their vacant OC job, per league sources,” The Athletic’s Joe Person said in a post on X, formerly Twitter on January 17. “Brown also is set to interview this week with the Titans for their head coaching position.”

This past season was Brown’s first as an offensive coordinator at the NFL level. He spent the three seasons before coaching the Los Angeles Rams running backs and tight ends and earning the title of Assistant Head Coach.

The Panthers ranked 31st in points and 32nd in yards in 2023.

But Brown – who spent three years as the OC at the University of Miami – only called plays for three weeks before having the duties revoked by former Panthers head coach, Frank Reich.

This is also another link to the Sean McVay-Kyle Shanahan coaching tree.

Marcus Brady – Senior Offensive Assistant – Philadelphia Eagles

“The #Bears have requested to interview Marcus Brady for their offensive coordinator position, per source,” Fowler reported on X on January 18. “Brady is currently on the Eagles staff and was the OC in Indy under Frank Reich.”

Brady was in Indy for five seasons, working his way from Assistant Quarterbacks Coach to Quarterbacks Coach to Offensive Coordinator.

Under Brady, the Colts’ offense peaked at ninth in points and 16th in yards in 2021.

But that was largely thanks to a dominant ground attack, which still may appeal to the Bears. He also worked under Reich, a former quarterback and offensive-minded head coach who calls his own plays.

Brady spent nine seasons in the CFL – three as Wide Receivers Coach (Montreal Alouettes) and six as Offensive Coordinator (Alouettes and Toronto Argonauts).

Zac Robinson – QB Coach – Los Angeles Rams

“Source: The Bears are interviewing Rams pass-game coordinator/QBs coach Zac Robinson for their offensive coordinator job today,” Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reported on January 18.

Robinson has been with the Rams in various capacities since 2018, starting as Assistant Quarterbacks Coach and helping to groom Jared Goff, who helped guide the Rams to the Super Bowl in 2018.

After his four-year NFL career, Robinson began working with prospects in pursuit of their collegiate and professional careers, and he has worked as an analyst for Pro Football Focus.

This past season, he worked with Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, a Pro Bowler.

Kliff Kingsbury – QB Coach – USC

“Former Cardinals’ HC Kliff Kingsbury, a senior offensive analyst and quarterbacks coach at USC, is expected to interview for the Chicago Bears’ offensive coordinator job, per sources,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on X on January 18. “Kingsbury’s USC QB Caleb Williams is expected to receive strong consideration to become the Bears’ No. 1 overall pick.”

The elephant in the room is the connection to Williams.

Chicago’s plans at quarterback remain unclear, a staple of the Ryan Poles era over the last two seasons. But Kingsbury’s offenses have produced some other very successful collegiate and NFL quarterbacks that could expand his appeal to the Bears.

He has worked with Baker Mayfield, a former No. 1 overall pick who profiles very similarly to Williams in terms of size and questions about his ability to play on schedule. Mayfield found his greatest success under Kingsbury’s boss at USC, Lincoln Riley, during the latter’s time at Oklahoma University.

Kingsbury, a former NFL quarterback, also coached Patrick Mahomes to his historic numbers in college.

At the NFL level, Kingsbury helped Kyler Murray, another former No. 1 pick, earn back-to-back trips to the Pro Bowl during his tenure as Arizona Cardinals head coach.

Candidates Declaring Themselves

This one will be a different section, one for individuals who have tossed their hat into the ring. Given the uniqueness of the category, some of the candidates may not be for offensive coordinator.

Chase Daniel – Retired NFL Veteran QB

Chase Daniel spent 13 seasons in the NFL, all as a backup. He has worked behind some of the game’s better passers during that time, including Drew Brees, Matthew Stafford, and Alex Smith, and even spent two seasons in Chicago backing up Mitchell Trubisky.

He has offered up his expertise for the now-vacated quarterbacks coach position.

“I’m available,” Daniels said in a quoted post of Pelissero’s reporting that the Bears had fired quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko along with several other members of Getsy’s staff.

Daniels has done several videos breaking down Justin Fields and understands the environment the quarterback is in in Chicago. His role would, of course, be up to whomever the Bears decide to hire as offensive coordinator, though.

News, Opinion

Bears Appear to Lean Into Locker Room Sentiment in Firing Luke Getsy

All season long the Chicago Bears were consistent.

Not on the field, and by a long shot in that regard. But their approach and attitude in the locker room remained the same throughout what was an admittedly trying season. That’s why their decision to bring back head coach Matt Eberflus – but part with offensive coordinator Luke Getsy and quarterback coach Andrew Janocko – is far from surprising. You just had to listen.

Bears Players’ Buy-In May Have Saved Matt Eberflus, Cost Luke Getsy

Matt Eberflus’s Hold on Bears’ Locker Room Likely Facilitated Change

It’s not a stretch to say that the buy-in was there even when the results seemed like only distant possibilities. It was evident in players like Jaquan Brisker’s often-uttered mindset of “being where my feet are”. Or when quarterback Justin Fields talked about the “200” standard Eberflus laid out for him – 200 passing yards, zero turnovers, zero sacks.

He didn’t reach those markers often enough. He finished the season with seven 200-yard passing games, six games without an interception, and zero games without taking at least one sack. The Bears’ offense took steps forward, ranking 18th in points and 20th in yards this season. But that progress, the front office has deemed, was a larger byproduct of talent than the direction it was given.

Still, players heeded Eberflus’ message even when the outside openly questioned it.

Right down to the end of the season when, despite still having a mixed bag of success even during their uptrend, players commended the head coach’s steadiness.

Then came General Manager Ryan Poles’ endorsement of that last point ahead of the Bears’ Week 18 loss to the Green Bay Packers. It was arguably the worst time for such a statement, given how the team performed in that game.

But, even in the aftermath, Eberflus – whose strategy was called out by players in the media – received commendations for being open-minded and willing to adapt.

He flexed that latter point after the trade acquisition of Montez Sweat and the secondary getting healthy. Sweat, for one, gave an emphatic “I love Flus” during his end-of-season availability in the Bears locker room on January 8. The defense’s turnaround only bolstered what Eberflus already began building: culture. It is often mocked due to the lackluster results.

Eberflus is 10-24 as the Bears head coach and has had to dismiss several staff members in his two years at the helm.

That first season — the one during which the front office actively tore the roster down to the studs — aside, he is 7-10 this season, meaning his team more than doubled its win total despite the offense never really clicking. The defense finished ranked 20th in points and 12th in yards on the season. But they were among the best units in the league following the acquisition of Sweat.

The Bears’ Most Important Hire

Getsy’s departure doesn’t signal the Bears’ intentions either way on Fields. It could be a strong indicator that the soon-to-be fourth-year passer will have his third offensive coordinator, though.

That doesn’t mean it has to be a rocky transition, though.

The Bears will likely have to choose from a list of out-of-work coordinators/coaches and position coaches. Many if not all of the top current offensive coordinators will likely be top head coaching candidates. Those who don’t could very well return to a familiar situation rather than risk it under a potential outgoing head coach.

Eberflus still has one year left on his contract barring an offseason extension.

All of that combines to potentially make this the single most important personnel decision this offseason. Should the Bears pass on a quarterback, then the new offensive coordinator has to align with whatever vision the front office has for Fields as well as a potential replacement with his future still uncertain even if he is back next season.

This is also a key decision by Poles. All three of him, Eberflus, and Fields would seem to need this next hire to be the best hire. Ironically, getting that decision right could spell trouble for Eberflus down the line if the team falters. But that is a bridge the Bears would happily cross down the road. It would almost certainly mean they’ve had offensive success if nothing else.

Bears Risking Repeating Vicious Cycle

With a sordid history at offensive coordinator, the Bears have not earned the benefit of the doubt. They need this to pay off and in a big way. Again, even if they move on from Fields, the right offensive mind can make for an easier transition to the league.

The players, to a man, have voiced support for Fields throughout the season. They have also carefully described their thoughts on Getsy, though he and Fields have been complimentary of each other when asked.

Wide receiver DJ Moore, one of Fields’ biggest supporters, has noted the need to keep attacking down the field. Even Eberflus noted they did not do that often enough this past season. It was especially damning considering the progress the offense seemed to make in the second half of last season.

A repeat performance from that side of the ball despite improved talent was Getsy’s downfall.

The Bears’ biggest mistake may have been entrusting the position coach of an already-established quarterback to develop their raw but talented one. Now they are faced with the very real possibility of every key piece of their organization being on different timelines.

That has yet to work out, specifically when it comes to this franchise over its history. Those running the show – and fans – had better hope they get it right this time. They still have work to do on the roster in addition to finding a new voice for the offense.

News

Bears RB D’Onta Foreman Opens Up About Season: ‘This S*** Business’

The Chicago Bears overhauled their offense this past offseason, adding two offensive linemen, a pair of veteran tight ends, and two receivers, including No. 1 option DJ Moore.

Part of that revamp was running back D’Onta Foreman, who signed a one-year contract after stints with the Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans, and Atlanta Falcons. He was seemingly a fitting replacement for the departed David Montgomery.

That has happened, but only sporadically, and not all because of Foreman.

Clocker Sports: “We’ve talked before about the up-and-down nature of the season. Where are you? How’s that been for you, just being back and forth?”

D’Onta Foreman: “S*****.”

Bears’ D’Onta Foreman Seeking Answers Amid ‘Surprising’ Season

D’Onta Foreman a Victim of Bears’ Numbers Game

Incumbent back Khalil Herbert — who is coming off back-to-back 100-plus-yard performances — always figured to get the first crack at leading the backfield. But the Bears, in addition to having a dynamic runner at quarterback in Justin Fields, also drafted a bigger-bodied back in Roschon Johnson in the fourth round of this year’s cycle.

Combine that with a lack of special teams work for Foreman, a role fellow back Travis Homer occupies, and Foreman has been a healthy scratch five times this season, including in Week 17 versus the Falcons.

CS: “You have been productive, so what you can do out there? Is that something you try to bring up to the coaches, or are you just a person who’s like, ‘Alright then. This my role, and I’m going to do what I gotta do.’?”

DF: “We haven’t really had no real conversation about it. But I definitely plan on having some type of conversation before it’s all said and done. Just get some clarity about some stuff.”

When healthy, Foreman has produced. He averaged 4.3 yards per carry en route to 351 yards and three touchdowns on the ground, adding another 47 yards and a score through the air in his first five starts of the season. Injuries and personal reasons have kept him out of three contests in total.

‘Uncertainty Is The Toughest Part’ for D’Onta Foreman

CS: “Has that been the toughest part about the season: Aside from the struggles that the team has had, you personally having to deal with, not necessarily not playing, but the uncertainty of what your role might be?”

DF: “Yeah, the uncertainty. Uncertainty is the toughest part.”

CS: “Have your brothers come to you in the running back room to try to help you, keep you up, and stuff like that? Or is it more a thing that you are trying to deal with by yourself?”

DF: “I think some of my teammates – with the running backs, other teammates – some people don’t understand it. So I kind of get that a lot. But for the most part, everybody kind of got their own little whatever. So you kind of got to focus on that.”

CS: “Do you want to be back next year?”

DF: “Do I want to be back? I mean, I want to play football. So if the feeling is mutual, then yeah. But I think based on the way stuff been going, it’s hard to say the feeling would be mutual.”

Foreman started and played into the third quarter against the Cleveland Browns in Week 15. But, after six carries for minus-six yards and issues in pass protection (as did his fellow backs), he ceded carries to Johnson.

He missed practice on December 21 for personal reasons before logging a limited session in the last practice ahead of the Bears’ Week 16 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Foreman practiced in full to start the following week, getting removed from the report entirely.

Then came the cryptic post about “no love” the night before Foreman was made inactive against Atlanta.

D’Onta Foreman Clears Air on Cryptic Social Media Post

CS: “I saw you fire off that tweet a couple days ago before the game. Was that related to this?”

DF: “It partially had something to do with it. But that wasn’t like the sole reason. I’m a person who sometimes just speaks out loud. I know I don’t always tweet. But I think it was just kind of one of them things to where it’s like I was expressing just in general in life period. No matter what it is. Whether it’s here, whether it’s you at your job, whether it’s whatever. It’s like, man, this s*** business at the end of the day. So it ain’t no love in this s*** we do.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about coming in here, doing what you got to do. And you might be doing everything you got to do to whatever. But, s***, certain situations might be above you, you know what I mean? So it’s like, it ain’t no love in nothing we do in life period.

“It’s like, s***, you could be a great person and do everything, you can still die. And that’s crazy, but it’s no love in this s***.

“You just kind of gotta roll with the punches and make the best out of your opportunities.”

CS: “Has this been the toughest season for you from that standpoint? I know you’re a guy who had to fight for your opportunities in the beginning anyway.”

DF: “I wouldn’t say it’s the toughest one. But I would say that it’s probably the most surprising situation, more so. Me not truly understanding why.”

The Bears have a tight-knit locker room, and it encourages players to speak their piece. It’s part of how they weather the storm of the early season. Foreman has also not been one to make waves. But this is a situation that began with plenty of optimism only to turn ambiguous at best.