The Chicago Bears interviewed two candidates for their head coaching position on Saturday: Brian Flores, the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive coordinator, and Adam Stenavich, the Green Bay Packers’ offensive coordinator.
Flores, 43, has spent the last two years managing Minnesota’s defense after serving as a senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022. Before that, he was the Miami Dolphins’ head coach for three years, finishing with a 24-25 record and no playoff appearances before being fired.
In February 2022, Flores filed a federal lawsuit against the NFL, the Dolphins, the Giants, and the Denver Broncos, alleging racial discrimination in hiring practices for leadership roles in the league.
Flores had an interview with the New York Jets on Friday and was expected to meet with the Jacksonville Jaguars about their head coaching opening. The Vikings finished second in the NFC North with a 14-3 record, just behind the Detroit Lions.
Stenavich, on the other hand, just wrapped up his second season as the Packers’ offensive coordinator under head coach Matt LaFleur. Before that, he spent three years as Green Bay’s offensive line coach. With quarterback Jordan Love at the helm, the Packers finished fifth in the NFL in yards per game and eighth in scoring.
Despite having the youngest roster in the league for two consecutive years, the Packers ended with an 11-6 record, placing third in the NFC North. They were eliminated from the playoffs in the first round by the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Bears are looking for a new head coach to replace Matt Eberflus, who was fired on November 29. Chicago finished last in the NFC North with a 5-12 record, losing 10 games in a row before securing a win against Green Bay in their final game of the season.
Brian Flores in the 1st half
The main goal for the next head coach will be the development of quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, had a solid season with 3,541 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and six interceptions. However, he was sacked a league-high 68 times, setting a franchise record.
Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner from Southern California, made headlines on Saturday when he was seen courtside at the Wisconsin-USC basketball game in Los Angeles with his right hand in a cast or wrap. The wrap extended from his lower knuckles to below his wrist.
A source familiar with the situation said it was a minor elective procedure, but neither the Bears nor Williams have commented publicly on it. General manager Ryan Poles did not mention Williams among the players who were scheduled for surgery during his end-of-season press conference. Williams also had a new buzzed haircut, which surprised some people.
The Bears have interviewed 16 candidates so far. Some of the high-profile names include Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, former Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, and former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.
Other candidates include Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, interim coach Thomas Brown, former Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, former Stanford head coach David Shaw, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka.
Buffalo Bills interim offensive coordinator Joe Brady looks on before an NFL football game
The Chicago Bears interviewed two offensive coordinators for their head coaching position on Friday: Todd Monken from the Baltimore Ravens and Joe Brady from the Buffalo Bills. Both coaches lead offenses with MVP-caliber quarterbacks—Lamar Jackson for the Ravens and Josh Allen for the Bills. This Sunday, Baltimore will face Buffalo in a playoff game between AFC division winners.
During the regular season, the Ravens had the top-ranked offense in the NFL and were third in scoring. The Bills ranked second in scoring and 10th in total yards per game.
The Bears are seeking a new head coach after firing Matt Eberflus on November 29. Chicago ended the season with a 5-12 record, finishing last in the NFC North. The team lost 10 straight games before finishing the season with a win against Green Bay.
The development of quarterback Caleb Williams will be the key focus for the new coach, following the Bears’ fourth consecutive losing season. Williams, the No. 1 pick in last year’s draft, threw for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. However, he was sacked 68 times, which set a franchise record and was the most in the league.
Lamar Jackson (NFL)
The Bears have interviewed 14 candidates for the head coaching job. Some notable names on the list include Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, and former Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy. Former Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel, who is now in New England, is also among the candidates.
In addition to Monken and Brady, Chicago has interviewed several other candidates. These include Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, interim coach Thomas Brown, former Carolina Panthers and Washington Football Team coach Ron Rivera, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, former Stanford head coach David Shaw, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka.
The Bears recently contacted the Steelers to inquire about the possibility of speaking with and potentially trading for longtime head coach Mike Tomlin. However, Pittsburgh rejected their request, according to league sources.
The discussions never reached Tomlin, and it’s unlikely they would have been successful even if they had. When asked about a team’s interest in his availability, Tomlin responded earlier this week: “Save your time.”
At least one other team, besides the Bears, also looked into trading for Tomlin but quickly learned that he has a no-trade clause in his contract. This information led the other team to stop their pursuit and move on.
Even though other teams have shown interest in Tomlin, the Steelers have no intention of parting ways with him, despite Pittsburgh’s fifth straight one-and-done playoff appearance.
Tomlin signed a three-year contract extension last offseason, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in the NFL. After 18 seasons in Pittsburgh, he shows no signs of leaving, even with some frustration from the fan base.
“I understand the nature of what it is that we do, the attention and criticism that comes with it,” Tomlin said during his season-ending press conference. “As a matter of fact, I embrace it, to be quite honest with you. I enjoy the urgency that comes with what I do and what we do.”
“I don’t make excuses for failure. I own it, but I also feel like I’m capable and so as long as I’m afforded an opportunity to do that, I will continue. But I certainly understand their frustrations, and probably more important than that, I share it because that’s how I’m wired.”
Chicago Bears players celebrate after scoring
Despite the rejection, some sources believe the Bears deserve credit for reaching out. They recognized Tomlin’s leadership and coaching skills and, in their search for the best candidate, decided to inquire with the Steelers.
Even without Tomlin as an option, the Bears have cast a wide net in their head coaching search.
So far, the Bears have interviewed a long list of candidates, including interim head coach Thomas Brown, former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, former Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, former Commanders head coach Ron Rivera, former Stanford head coach David Shaw, former Titans and current Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, and Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver.
The Bears have also requested interviews with Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell, Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, and Packers offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich.
The Steelers have only had three head coaches since 1969: Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher, and Tomlin, who will turn 53 in March. Tomlin has never had a losing season with the Steelers and is the second-winningest coach in franchise history, behind only Noll, with a career record of 183-107-2.
Bears Part Ways with Matt Eberflus Following Loss to Lions and Ongoing Struggles
After a disappointing 5-12 season, including 10 straight losses and the firing of coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, the Chicago Bears are looking to hire their next head coach.
General manager Ryan Poles mentioned that the search committee he is leading will talk to a variety of coaches from different backgrounds. The candidates will have interviews with a six-person panel that includes Chairman George McCaskey, President/CEO Kevin Warren, Poles, director of football administration Matt Feinstein, senior director of player personnel Jeff King, and chief human resources officer Liz Geist.
“We’re turning every stone to make sure we’re doing this the right way,” Poles said. “We’re going to move with urgency, but we’re not going to rush the process. Again, because we want it to be a sound process.”
Wednesday The Bears interviewed Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Smith finished his first season with the Steelers, working with quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. The Steelers had a 10-8 record, losing 28-14 to the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the playoffs.
They ranked in the middle of the league in both points and yards per game. Smith was also head coach of the Atlanta Falcons for three years, with a record of 21-30. Before that, he was the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, helping the team’s offense become a top-five unit in 2020.
Smith, 42, is an experienced candidate with a 16-year NFL coaching career but has had mixed results as a coach.
Tuesday The Bears interviewed David Shaw, senior personnel executive with the Denver Broncos. Shaw has been with the Broncos since June, working under general manager George Paton to help evaluate both college and pro talent. Before joining the Broncos, Shaw was the head coach at Stanford for 12 years, leading the team to 96 wins and eight straight bowl games at the start of his tenure.
Shaw was named Pac-12 Coach of the Year four times, including in 2011 when he coached star quarterback Andrew Luck. Shaw is seen as a long shot to get the Bears job.
The Bears are expected to continue interviews with former Cowboys and Packers coach Mike McCarthy on Wednesday. McCarthy’s interview will likely be in person.
Monday The Bears interviewed interim coach Thomas Brown. Brown had a challenging role when he became the Bears’ interim head coach in November after the firing of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus. Brown had previously been the passing game coordinator, then offensive coordinator, and finally interim head coach.
Mike McCarthy walks off the field after the game
Under his leadership, the Bears went 1-4, with their only win coming in the season finale against the Green Bay Packers. Despite the tough circumstances, the Bears gave Brown an interview, where he shared his vision for the team and how he would approach things differently with a full season as head coach.
Brown was the offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers in 2023 and had previously been an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Rams.
Mike McCarthy Leaves the Dallas Cowboys Mike McCarthy’s contract with the Cowboys was set to end on Tuesday, and the two sides couldn’t agree on a contract extension. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones later confirmed that McCarthy would not return, stating that the decision was mutual. “I have great respect for Mike, and he has led the team through some very unique and challenging times during his tenure,” Jones said.
The Bears had asked to interview McCarthy last week, but the Cowboys denied the request. Now McCarthy is free to speak with any team he wants. McCarthy had been with the Cowboys for five years, making three playoff appearances. Before joining the Cowboys, he coached the Green Bay Packers for 13 years, leading them to nine playoff appearances and one Super Bowl victory.
Sunday
The Bears interviewed longtime NFL coach Ron Rivera.
Rivera has spent 13 years as an NFL head coach — nine with the Carolina Panthers and the last four with the Washington Commanders through 2023. His career record is 102-103, but he hasn’t had a winning season since 2017 with the Panthers.
He previously worked as the Bears’ defensive coordinator from 2004-06 and was also the San Diego Chargers’ coordinator for three seasons. Rivera, a former linebacker, played for the Bears for nine years and won a Super Bowl with the 1985 team.
New England Patriots hire Mike Vrabel as their new coach
Four days after having a virtual interview with the Bears, Vrabel reunited with the New England Patriots, the team he played for during his career. He spent eight seasons with the Patriots and won three Super Bowls.
Vrabel’s return to New England was expected. This move filled one of six head coaching jobs available in the league, leaving the Bears, Saints, Jets, Raiders, and Jaguars with remaining vacancies.
Vrabel was one of the top choices for the Patriots, who were also seriously considering Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Johnson had a virtual interview with the Bears on Saturday. The Patriots had also interviewed Pep Hamilton and Byron Leftwich but quickly hired Vrabel less than a week after firing Jerod Mayo as head coach.
The Bears will continue their interviews this week, moving forward with a list of 18 known candidates for the position.
Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham completed a virtual interview for the Tennessee Titans GM job
Cunningham is back in the running for the Titans GM role, a position he was a finalist for two years ago. The Titans hired Ran Carthon in 2023 instead.
Bears GM Ryan Poles mentioned last week that he would allow Cunningham to explore career opportunities this month. Cunningham’s interview was part of the first round of interviews conducted by the Titans. Other candidates for the job include Thomas Dimitroff, John Spytek, Ed Dodds, Reggie McKenzie, Matt Berry, and Mike Borgonzi.
Other GM jobs are open with the Jets and Raiders. If Cunningham is hired by another team, the Bears would receive a third-round compensatory pick for the 2024 draft and another third-round pick in the 2026 draft, under the NFL’s Rooney Rule hiring regulations.
Saturday
The Bears interviewed Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Glenn is in his fourth season as the Lions’ defensive coordinator and has 11 years of experience as an NFL coach, having also worked with the New Orleans Saints and Cleveland Browns. The Lions’ defense ranks seventh in the league, allowing 20.1 points per game, and they lead the league in third-down percentage at 32.4%.
Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn walks off the field after warmups before a game
As with all defensive-minded candidates, the Bears will need to hear Glenn’s plans for assembling his offensive staff and how he would help quarterback Caleb Williams succeed.
Bears interviewed Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson
Johnson is one of the top candidates for head coach after leading the Lions offense to the top of the league with 33.2 points per game and second in yards per game with 409.5 this season. He has been the Lions’ offensive coordinator since 2022 and has played a big role in the team’s success, helping them become the NFC’s No. 1 seed in this year’s playoffs under coach Dan Campbell.
The Bears needed to learn about Johnson’s leadership style and how he works with quarterbacks, including how he would fit with quarterback Caleb Williams as they consider him for the head coach position.
Thursday Bears interviewed New York Giants assistant head coach/offensive coordinator Mike Kafka
Kafka, a St. Rita and Northwestern graduate, was previously with the Kansas City Chiefs when GM Ryan Poles worked there. Kafka spent five years with the Chiefs, including four as the quarterbacks coach for Patrick Mahomes. He was also the passing game coordinator for the last two years.
Kafka, 37, has been with the Giants for three years. This season, the Giants’ offense struggled, ranking 30th in yards per game and 31st in points per game, with three different starting quarterbacks.
Bears interviewed former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll
Carroll, 73, has an impressive career, with accomplishments that the Bears have only dreamed of in recent years. In 14 seasons with the Seahawks (2010-2023), he led the team to 10 playoff appearances, two Super Bowls, and a Super Bowl XLVIII win in the 2013 season.
Carroll has been successful in helping both young and experienced quarterbacks, but he would need a strong offensive coordinator to help guide quarterback Caleb Williams. Carroll and the Seahawks parted ways after last season following a three-year stretch with a 25-26 record and one playoff berth.
Bears interviewed Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver
Weaver, 44, was the third candidate to have a virtual meeting with the Bears. He just finished his first season with the Dolphins, helping make their defense one of the top 10 in the league, allowing an average of 314.4 yards and 21.3 points per game.
Weaver uses a 3-4 defensive system with the Dolphins and has seven years of NFL coaching experience. He has spent much of his career as a defensive line coach. He also worked for two seasons as the assistant head coach under John Harbaugh with the Baltimore Ravens.
Thomas Brown is expected to interview for the Seahawks offensive coordinator opening
Bears interim coach Thomas Brown is set to meet with Bears officials about his chance to stay as head coach, but the team’s desire to start fresh will likely lead them in a different direction. As a result, Brown will be looking for a new job and is expected to explore the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator position this weekend, according to reports.
Thomas Brown speaks at a news conference
The Seahawks’ offensive coordinator position opened up this week when coach Mike Macdonald fired Ryan Grubb. Grubb had only spent one season in that role after replacing Shane Waldron last year. Macdonald cited differences in vision with Grubb as a reason for the change. If the Seahawks want a more balanced offense with a stronger focus on the running game, Brown could be a good fit.
Brown and Macdonald worked together for one season at Georgia in 2011 when Brown was the strength and conditioning coach and Macdonald was a quality control coach.
Jan. 8
Bears interviewed former Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel
Vrabel, who had a 54-45 record over six seasons with the Titans, is one of the top candidates in this hiring cycle. He worked as a consultant for the Cleveland Browns this season and has already interviewed with the New York Jets. He is also reportedly scheduled to meet with the New England Patriots on Thursday. Vrabel, 49, played for the Patriots for eight of his 14 NFL seasons and is considered a leading candidate for their head coach position.
Vrabel, a former linebacker, has a defensive coaching background, so the Bears likely asked him to explain his plans for quarterback Caleb Williams. This includes suggesting possible coordinators and coaches who would join him in Chicago. Bears players who worked under Vrabel in Tennessee described him as a detailed and no-nonsense coach who sets high standards from the start.
Bears interviewed Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing
Petzing, 37, has been the Cardinals’ offensive coordinator for just two seasons. This year, he helped lead the team to a top-10 rushing offense, aided by quarterback Kyler Murray. Before joining the Cardinals, Petzing worked for the Cleveland Browns for three seasons, including serving as the quarterbacks coach in 2022. He also spent six years as an assistant with the Minnesota Vikings.
Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon expressed excitement for Petzing receiving interest from other teams for a head coaching role. Gannon praised Petzing’s ability to teach, his intelligence, and his talent for getting the best out of people, saying that Petzing has had valuable experiences and has been well-trained in coaching.
Thomas Brown watches from the sidelines in the 1st half
The Chicago Bears interviewed Thomas Brown for their head coaching position on Monday after he served as the team’s interim head coach at the end of the season.
Brown was hired as the passing game coordinator for Chicago last February. He was promoted to offensive coordinator after Shane Waldron was fired on November 12. Then, after Matt Eberflus was dismissed on November 29, Brown took over as interim head coach.
Under Brown, Chicago lost four of its final five games. The team ended with a 5-12 record, but they did end the season on a high note with a 24-22 win over Green Bay on January 5, breaking a 10-game losing streak.
The development of quarterback Caleb Williams is a major focus for the Bears following their fourth consecutive losing season. Williams, the No. 1 overall pick from last year’s draft, completed 64.9% of his passes for 929 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception after Brown took over.
The Bears are casting a wide net in their search for a new head coach. On Sunday, they interviewed former Carolina Panthers and Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera.
Chicago Bears players celebrate in the 2nd half
Chicago also interviewed Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn on Saturday. They have spoken with former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, and former Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel. Vrabel was hired by New England on Sunday.
The Bears have only made three playoff appearances since their NFC Championship appearance in 2006, and their only Super Bowl title came during the 1985 season.
Chicago believed they had a strong chance to make the playoffs this season after a busy offseason, which included adding Williams. They also acquired six-time Pro Bowl receiver Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers. However, instead of making a playoff run, they went into a downward spiral after starting 4-2.
Chicago Bears players celebrates after a touchdown in the 1st half
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles is in charge of finding the team’s next head coach and is open to exploring all possibilities to find the right candidate.
When asked during his season-ending press conference on Tuesday if he would consider trading for a head coach, Poles said, “We’ll look at all avenues to get the best coach here.”
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell is reportedly receiving interest from multiple NFL teams. O’Connell, 39, stated on Monday that he wants to stay in Minnesota, but the idea of teams potentially using draft picks to trade for him has sparked discussion.
The Bears will begin their first round of interviews this week, considering both college and NFL candidates. Poles emphasized four key traits he is looking for in the new head coach: clear vision, a developmental mindset, strong game management, and a plan to develop a quarterback. He also mentioned that some surprising names will be considered, as the team is casting a “wide net” in their search.
“We’re looking for clear vision, a developmental mindset, really good game management, and obviously a plan to develop a quarterback is going to be a key part of that as well,” Poles said. “There’s going to be some names that you don’t expect that are going to surprise you because we’re digging deeper than we ever have before.”
The Bears recently requested an interview with Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Mario Edwards Jr. celebrates after sacking Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams during the second half
They are also planning interviews with former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, and Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, among others.
The team also sought permission to interview Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, but as of Tuesday, Dallas has not yet responded to the request.
“There’s going to be some names that you don’t expect that are going to surprise you because we’re digging deeper than we ever have before,” Poles said about the coaching search.
Poles also noted that the development of quarterback Caleb Williams will be an important factor in choosing the next head coach. However, he is not focusing solely on hiring an offensive coach, despite the importance of Williams’ development in his second season.
“For a young quarterback, obviously, there’s an ideal fit,” Poles said. “But at the end of the day, you got to look at all the characteristics of what you’re looking for in a head coach, and then you got to see what’s the best bundle of those to bring in the building.
Obviously, we’re talking about leadership, accountability, some of those important things that carry over. Regardless of what the situation is, those have to be there.”
Poles also reflected on the Bears’ 5-12 finish, admitting that the team’s focus shifted too much to outcomes instead of process. He explained that the excitement around landing Williams with the No. 1 pick led the Bears to overlook important details, accountability, and the ability to handle critical moments.
“It has been a long season where those Mondays have been very, very difficult to review after we have come up short,” Poles said. “And I have to take responsibility as the leader of the football operation for that. And I also have to make sure that we find solutions to make sure that we don’t make that mistake again and we can continue to improve.”
Chicago Bears players celebrates after scoring
Bears chairman George McCaskey and president/CEO Kevin Warren reaffirmed that Poles will be in charge of hiring the team’s next head coach.
Along with Poles, the interview panel will include director of football administration Matt Feinstein, senior director of player personnel Jeff King, chief administrative officer Ted Crews, and chief HR officer Liz Geist. Assistant general manager Ian Cunningham will also participate when possible, as he is seeking general manager opportunities.
Although Poles, who was hired in January 2022, did not clarify whether he has received a contract extension, McCaskey stated that having the contracts of the general manager and head coach aligned is not necessary to attract the best candidate.
“I don’t think so. In the interviews that I have participated in, that has never been a factor,” McCaskey said. “No one has ever come in and said, ‘I’m not going to come here unless the general manager and I are on the same timeline.’ So, I don’t think that’s going to be a factor.”
The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly rejected the Chicago Bears’ request to interview head coach Mike McCarthy, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Schefter earlier reported that the Bears’ request went unanswered by Tuesday afternoon after they initially asked for permission on Monday.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones mentioned on Sunday that he hadn’t yet made a decision about McCarthy’s future and was okay with other teams speaking to him, as reported by The Athletic’s Jon Machota.
McCarthy, 61, is set to have his contract expire next Tuesday, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
The Cowboys missed the playoffs for the first time in four seasons this year after losing Dak Prescott to a midseason hamstring injury.
In McCarthy’s five seasons as head coach, the Cowboys made the playoffs three times, though they only won one postseason game during that time, and had two losing seasons without Prescott.
McCarthy said after the Cowboys’ season-ending loss to the Washington Commanders that he “absolutely” wanted to return for another year with the team.
“I have a lot invested here. And the Cowboys have a lot invested in me,” he said, per Reuters.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Diontae Johnson pulls in a reception as Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson defends during the second half
If the Cowboys decide to part ways with McCarthy, not allowing him to speak to other teams early in the offseason could hurt his chances of getting other head coaching offers before teams hire candidates.
The Bears are reportedly considering McCarthy along with other potential candidates, including Detroit Lions coordinators Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, and former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.
If the Bears want to act quickly to secure a coach in high demand, like Vrabel, who is also a target for the New England Patriots, they may have to make a decision before McCarthy becomes available.
There’s also a chance the Cowboys are still focused on finalizing the terms of McCarthy’s next contract. Jones expressed confidence in his head coach throughout the season, even with the team’s struggles without Prescott.
If Dallas doesn’t make a decision by next week, Jones risks McCarthy becoming available and attracting interest from multiple teams looking for a new coach this offseason.
It would also give Chicago another chance to hire the veteran coach, if the team is willing to wait.
The Chicago Bears used a trick play on special teams for their final game of the season.
They managed to pull off a fake punt return touchdown and a play from former special teams coordinator Dave Toub’s playbook to take a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter. This marked the first time Chicago had been in the lead during a game since November 24.
With 6:52 left in the first quarter, Green Bay punter Daniel Whelan kicked the ball near the sideline. Bears wide receiver DJ Moore tricked the Packers’ coverage team by pretending he was about to catch the punt inside the 5-yard line, while cornerback Josh Blackwell was left alone on the opposite side of the field.
Chicago Bears players celebrate after an interception
Blackwell caught the punt, turned around, and ran 94 yards for a touchdown before jumping into the stands at Lambeau Field. This was the longest punt return for Chicago since their 97-yard return touchdown in 2021, which also happened against Green Bay.
Chicago had run a similar punt return in Green Bay in 2011, where Hall of Fame return specialist Devin Hester pretended he was going to catch a punt, while receiver Johnny Knox took the ball back for what seemed like a touchdown. However, that play was called back due to a penalty.
The Chicago Bears are officially looking for a new head coach.
Just one day after finishing their 2024 NFL season with a disappointing 5-12 record, the team began requesting interviews with several head coaching candidates. Other high-profile names, like former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, are also being talked about.
Matt Eberflus, who was the Bears’ head coach, was fired after the team lost 23-20 to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day. This decision came after the Bears went through a six-game losing streak that started with a defeat to the Washington Commanders in week 8.
“This morning … we informed Matt of our decision to move in a different direction with the leadership of our football team and the head coaching position,” said general manager Ryan Poles at the time. “I thank Matt for his hard work, professionalism and dedication to our organization.
We extend our gratitude for his commitment to the Chicago Bears and wish him and his family the best moving forward.”
Eberflus became the first head coach in Bears history to be fired during a regular season. In his two-plus seasons, he had a 14-32 record with the team. After Eberflus was let go, Thomas Brown, who had recently been promoted to offensive coordinator after Shane Waldron was fired, took over as the interim head coach to finish the season.
Reports indicate the Bears are planning to interview at least 13 candidates for the head coaching position.
Here are some of the people the Bears have reportedly reached out to:
Local
Drew Petzing, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator
On Monday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the Bears requested an interview with Drew Petzing, the Arizona Cardinals’ offensive coordinator. Petzing helped the Cardinals create one of the best rushing offenses in the league and has worked with players like wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and tight end Trey McBride.
Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator; Aaron Glenn, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Bears have also asked to interview Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Both Johnson and Glenn are among the top candidates for head coaching roles this offseason. Johnson helped the Lions have the second-best offense in the NFL, averaging 409.5 yards per game, and the second-best passing offense. Many believe Johnson could help unlock the potential of young quarterback Caleb Williams.
Johnson is also expected to interview for the New England Patriots’ head coach position, and the Jacksonville Jaguars have requested to interview him too.
Glenn is expected to interview with the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Lions had one of the best defenses, allowing only 20.1 points per game, which was seventh in the league, despite several injuries to key players.
Caleb Williams and Matt Eberflus in the 2nd half
Anthony Weaver, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator
The Bears are also expected to interview Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. The Dolphins allowed 21.4 points per game this season, ranking 11th in the league, and had one of the top pass defenses, allowing 210.6 yards per game.
Vance Joseph, Denver Broncos defensive coordinator
According to Michael Silver of The Athletic, the Bears are interested in interviewing Vance Joseph, the Denver Broncos’ defensive coordinator. The New York Jets are also reportedly looking to interview Joseph.
Joseph was previously the Broncos’ head coach for two years but has thrived as a defensive coordinator under head coach Sean Payton. The Broncos’ defense ranked seventh in the NFL in yards allowed per game (317.1) and had the third-best scoring defense, giving up just 18.3 points per game.
Mike Vrabel, former Tennessee Titans head coach
Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer reported that the Bears will interview former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel. According to Doug Kyed of the Boston Globe, the interview will take place on Wednesday.
Vrabel spent six seasons as the Titans’ head coach, leading them to two division titles and an AFC Championship game appearance in 2019. He worked as a consultant for the Cleveland Browns in 2024. Vrabel is also a strong candidate for the Patriots’ head coach role, given his history with the team as a former player.
Joe Brady, Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Bears will request an interview with Joe Brady, the Buffalo Bills’ offensive coordinator.
Brady has helped quarterback Josh Allen become an MVP candidate, and the Bills had one of the NFL’s most powerful passing offenses in 2024, averaging 227.9 yards per game. Brady was also the passing game coordinator for LSU when they won a national championship with Joe Burrow as their quarterback.
Thomas Brown, Chicago Bears interim head coach
Thomas Brown, who took over as interim head coach after Matt Eberflus was fired, will also be interviewed for the permanent head coaching role. Before becoming interim head coach, Brown was the Bears’ passing game coordinator and offensive coordinator.
Todd Monken, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator
NFL Network’s Pelissero reported that the Bears are considering Todd Monken, the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator, for their head coaching position.
Under Monken’s leadership, the Ravens had the NFL’s best offense in 2024, averaging 424.9 yards per game. They were also one of two teams that averaged more than 30 points per game and had the league’s top rushing offense, gaining 187.6 yards per game.
Thomas Brown watches from the sidelines in the 1st half
Mike McCarthy, Dallas Cowboys head coach
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Bears reached out to the Dallas Cowboys to ask permission to interview head coach Mike McCarthy.
McCarthy has a 49-35 record in five seasons with the Cowboys and won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers in 2010.
Brian Flores, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Bears have requested an interview with Brian Flores, the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive coordinator.
Flores previously was the head coach of the Miami Dolphins and helped the Vikings have one of the best run defenses in the NFL in 2024, allowing just 93.4 yards per game. The Vikings also ranked fifth in the league in points allowed, giving up only 19.5 points per game.
Arthur Smith, Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator
Schefter also reported that the Bears have asked to interview Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
Smith was the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons for three years before joining the Steelers. He worked with both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields during the 2024 season, helping Pittsburgh reach the playoffs. His offense ranked just outside the top-10 in rushing yards per game.
Mike Kafka, New York Giants offensive coordinator
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Bears will interview Mike Kafka, the New York Giants’ offensive coordinator.
Kafka is originally from Chicago and played football at St. Rita of Cascia before going on to play for Northwestern. He previously worked with the Kansas City Chiefs before joining the Giants in 2022 as their offensive coordinator and assistant head coach.
David Shaw, Denver Broncos executive
Rapoport also reported that the Bears requested an interview with David Shaw, a Broncos executive.
Shaw was the head coach at Stanford for 12 years, posting a record of 96-54. He led the team to eight straight bowl games, including two Rose Bowl victories in 2012 and 2015. Shaw has also worked in various NFL roles with the Raiders, Ravens, and Chargers.
The Chicago Bears plan to interview interim head coach Thomas Brown for the permanent position.
Brown stepped in for Matt Eberflus, who was dismissed on Nov. 29 after a 4-8 start. Heading into the season’s final game on Sunday, the Bears stood at 4-12.
Despite the team’s poor record, general manager Ryan Poles spoke highly of Brown during an interview with ESPN 1000 in Chicago on Sunday, saying he deserved consideration for the role.
“I’ve been so impressed with Thomas and his leadership,” Poles said. “I know the results haven’t come. That was a very difficult situation he’s been put in. I grew up in this business where you earn more, and that’s exactly how we got here with Thomas. I feel like he’s done a really good job.”
Brown began the season as the Bears’ passing game coordinator. When offensive coordinator Shane Waldron was fired after Week 10, Brown took over the role.
Chicago Bears players celebrate after an interception
“You could see the leadership traits, and then he got moved to the offense coordinator position and did well. We saw improvements on offense and then at the head coaching level, got the opportunity to do that and lead the entire team,” Poles said.
“And just sitting in team meetings, meeting with him after games — he’s a truth teller. He’s someone that does challenge our players to get better, creates accountability. So there’s a lot of really positive traits that Thomas has, and I’ve been proud of how he’s stepped up and led this team down the stretch here.
And again, it’s not the results that we wanted in terms of wins and losses, but the traits of a leader. He absolutely has those.”
Brown, 38, has more than four years of NFL coaching experience and nine years in the college ranks.
Other teams, including the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints, also have coach openings after firing their coaches during the season. More changes are expected after the regular season ends on what is known as Black Monday.
Chicago Bears players celebrate after an interception
The Chicago Bears head into the 2025 off-season with more concerns about their coaching staff than their roster. While the team isn’t yet ready for a championship, it’s easier to see where they need improvement. Anyone with common sense would agree that it starts in the trenches, particularly on the offensive side.
There’s a good chance that the Bears could have at least three new starters on the offensive line by next May. Fortunately, they have three picks in the first two rounds, which gives them a great chance to add a player who could make an immediate impact.
However, there is one issue. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reached out to an NFL general manager to discuss the upcoming draft class. One thing was made clear: The Bears should not expect to find a center in this year’s draft.
“There isn’t a center in this year’s draft class as talented as Frazier, who came out of West Virginia. Georgia’s Jared Wilson, if he enters the draft, might be the best of the group, but it’s a tough position to scout because NFL offenses require more from the position than colleges,” the GM said.
“It starts with the communication stuff. In college, you’ve got all this nonsense where they put Mickey Mouse and other stuff on a poster board and hold it up on the sideline to call the plays.
Finding the brain — a player that can handle everything presnap — is probably the hardest part because it is such an unknown. There isn’t a center in this year’s group that is even close to Frazier.”
Chicago Bears players celebrate after scoring
The Chicago Bears will need to make sure their scouting reports are solid. They won’t find a center in this draft who is ready to start right away. This means they may need to focus on improving guard and tackle positions instead. Ryan Poles, assuming he remains the GM, may have to look for a solution in the veteran market.
Coleman Shelton is a free agent, and Doug Kramer is not ready to be a starter. Fortunately, there should be some good options in free agency, such as Ryan Kelly from the Colts, Drew Dalman from the Falcons, and Josh Meyers from the Packers.
Any of these players could help provide stability at center, a position the Bears have struggled with for a long time. Over the past decade, the Bears have had at least five different centers, and their best one, Cody Whitehair, was not even drafted to play center.
This doesn’t seem like the year to find the next Olin Kreutz or Jay Hilgenberg. If the Bears do decide to draft a center, they will have to hope that he can develop into more than he was in college.
Seahawks Edge Bears 6-3 in Defensive Struggle, Turnover Woes Remain a Concern
The Seattle Seahawks secured a narrow 6-3 victory over the Chicago Bears in their Week 17 matchup, marking the lowest-scoring game of the 2024 NFL season. Despite struggling offensively, managing only 265 total yards, the Seahawks relied on two field goals by Jason Myers and a dominant defensive performance to win the game. The offense’s failure to produce significant yards was compounded by a turnover, but the defense stepped up to prevent additional damage.
The turnover issue has been a recurring problem for the 9-7 Seahawks all season, and it played a role in Thursday’s game. Tight end Pharaoh Brown was responsible for the lone turnover when Bears defensive back Kyler Gordon stripped the ball from him in the third quarter. The turnover nearly led to a Bears touchdown, but after review, it was correctly ruled that Gordon was down by contact, and Chicago was forced to punt. The defense, once again, bailed out the Seahawks’ offense in this key moment.
Seahawks Edge Bears 6-3 in Defensive Struggle, Turnover Woes Remain a Concern
Seattle’s failure to win the turnover battle was another significant aspect of the game. They finished with one turnover apiece, with cornerback Riq Woolen intercepting a desperate pass from rookie quarterback Caleb Williams in the game’s final moments. Despite the interception, the Seahawks remain one of the worst teams in the NFL in turnover differential, ranked seventh-worst at negative-7. The teams worse than Seattle in turnovers are mainly those competing for high draft picks in 2025.
The Seahawks were fortunate not to experience more turnovers in the game. Earlier in the contest, Geno Smith was strip-sacked by his former teammate, Darrell Taylor, which could have been another costly mistake. However, starting center Olu Oluwatimi recovered the fumble, preventing a turnover and keeping the drive alive. Despite the setback, the Seahawks’ offense was unable to capitalize, punting the ball back after losing yardage on the possession.
Despite consistently losing the turnover battle throughout the season, the Seahawks managed to secure a winning record at 9-7. Ball security has been a persistent issue for the team, and it will be a major focus in the offseason. Looking ahead, the Seahawks still have a chance to win the NFC West and extend their season into the playoffs with a strong performance in Week 18.
