This Week, the Bears’ Head Coach Search Gets Serious
A Narrowing Down of Candidates
The Bears have interviewed 17 head coaching candidates over the past two weeks, a list that’s long enough to field two baseball teams with an all-time pitcher. However, this week marks the beginning of a new phase in the search process. The team will begin to narrow down their options and make a decision on their next head coach.
The Top Contenders
The Bears are particularly interested in Lions’ offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who has received high praise for his work with quarterback Jared Goff. However, they’re not the only ones vying for his services. The Cowboys and Jaguars have also been in talks with Johnson, and he may have the upper hand in negotiations.
Another strong candidate is former Packers and Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy, who has a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. The Bears flew McCarthy to Halas Hall on a private jet, a luxury not afforded to other candidates. His combination of head coaching experience and play-calling acumen makes him an attractive option for the Bears, who are looking to build around quarterback Caleb Williams.
The NFL’s Rooney Rule
The Bears have already met with several candidates virtually, but starting Monday, they can meet with any candidate whose season has ended. The NFL’s Rooney Rule requires teams to interview two minority candidates in person, which the Bears have satisfied by meeting with former Bear Ron Rivera and Tennessee State coach Eddie George. However, George is a long shot to land the job.
The Raiders’ Role
The Raiders, who also interviewed Johnson virtually, have a general manager vacancy, which could be a significant draw for him. If Johnson prioritizes alignment with his GM, the Raiders may be the best option. The team interviewed Commanders’ assistant GM Lance Newmark on Sunday, and part-owner Tom Brady was part of the interview. This development could impact the Bears’ chances of landing Johnson.
The Search Continues
The Bears’ search is far from over, with several other candidates still in the running. They may yet reach out to Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, who has acknowledged the team’s interest, or the Steelers’ Mike Tomlin, who has been rebuffed. The Commanders’ Kliff Kingsbury may also enter the mix, but only if his team’s season ends as expected.
Conclusion
The next few days will be crucial in the Bears’ head coach search. The team will need to make a decision soon, as the NFL’s Rooney Rule requires. With several strong candidates still in the mix, the Bears will need to act quickly to secure their next head coach.
FAQs
* When will the Bears make their decision on a new head coach?
The team is expected to make a decision by the end of the week, if not sooner.
* Who are the top contenders for the job?
Ben Johnson, Mike McCarthy, and possibly Marcus Freeman are among the top contenders.
* What is the NFL’s Rooney Rule?
The Rooney Rule requires teams to interview two minority candidates in person before making a hiring decision.
* Can the Bears still interview other candidates?
Yes, the Bears can meet with any candidate whose season has ended, starting Monday.
