The Chicago Bears are in search of a new head coach after the recent firing of Matt Eberflus. The team is actively gathering information on potential candidates while employing outside consultants to assist in this crucial process. With the aim of making a strong impression, the Bears plan to showcase their first-class organization to prospective coaches.
The Bears' reporting structure remains unchanged, with the head coach reporting directly to the general manager, Ryan Poles, who in turn reports to team president Kevin Warren, and then to chairman George McCaskey. McCaskey is confident that Poles' contract situation will not hinder the search for a new head coach.
A crowded field of candidates is emerging as the Bears navigate their options. The playoff schedules across the league may complicate the timing of their decision-making process. The organization is particularly focused on finding an "ideal fit" for their young quarterback, Caleb Williams, but they are not prioritizing an offensive coach at this stage of interviews.
Among the candidates being considered are Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, and former Stanford head coach David Shaw. The interview committee comprises key figures including Poles, Warren, McCaskey, and several other senior personnel members.
In a unique approach, the Bears are contemplating utilizing outside counsel to assist with the search. This decision reflects their commitment to conducting a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of potential candidates.
Since their last playoff win in 2010, the Bears have cycled through five head coaches, highlighting the urgency of finding a leader who can effectively develop Williams and elevate the team's performance. The organization hopes to finalize their decision on a new head coach by the end of January.
Ryan Poles emphasized the importance of assessing various characteristics when searching for a head coach. He stated, "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."
He elaborated on the necessity of leadership and accountability within the coaching role, stating, "Obviously, we're talking about leadership, accountability, some of those important things that carry over." Poles reinforced that these qualities must not be overlooked during the selection process. "Regardless of what the situation is, those have to be there," he added.
Poles believes that experience plays a significant role in coaching success: "If you have been a head coach before, there's a lot of value because some of the new things you've already experienced, and you have kind of the playbook and the blueprint on how to counter the things when they go away from you." He also mentioned that maintaining humility and a continuous improvement mindset is crucial for success.
The plan each candidate devises to develop Caleb Williams will be a critical factor in determining who becomes the 19th head coach in franchise history. "The plan candidates devise to develop quarterback Caleb Williams will be a 'huge factor' in who is selected," Poles noted.
Kevin Warren reiterated Poles' leadership role in the search process, stating, "I think we made it clear, I made it clear in early December, he is our point person on the search." Warren emphasized Poles' authority within football operations, reinforcing his importance in selecting a new coach.
As the Bears move forward with their search, they face a blend of challenges and opportunities. They are working against time while also considering the implications of playoff schedules on their preferred candidates.
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