The Chicago Bears have done something that’s never been done in franchise history and fired a head coach midseason. With Matt Eberflus out, attention now turns to finding the next head coach to lead the team. That said, here’s a ranking of potential Bears head coaching candidates.
Ranking Bears Head Coach Candidates After Matt Eberflus’ Firing
1. Ben Johnson (OC, Detroit Lions)
Everyone’s favorite pick, and rightfully so. Bears fans caught a glimpse of his offensive brilliance during their heartbreaking Thanksgiving loss to the Detroit Lions. Widely regarded as the NFL’s next Sean McVay or Kyle Shanahan, Johnson has transformed the Lions into an 11-1 powerhouse—the best start in franchise history. As an innovative offensive play-caller, he should top the Bears wish list.
2. Thomas Brown (Interim HC, Chicago Bears)
The Bears interim head coach has quickly risen up the ranks in Chicago. A former running back and protégé of Sean McVay, Thomas Brown is admired for his calm demeanor and strong connection with players. He’ll have a chance to prove he deserves to stay as the Bears head coach with five games left in the season.
When highly regarded coaches like McVay said Brown is “one of the greatest competitors,” and two-time First Team All-Pro and 2021 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Andrew Whitworth stated, “leader of men! Rare Cat! Will be a head coach!” There’s meaning in those statements.
3. Mike Vrabel (Former Tennessee Titans HC)
Yes, he’s not an offensive-minded coach, but the Bears are in desperate need of stability at head coach. Vrabel is a true leader of men, and he’ll be a popular choice in the head coaching cycle this offseason. A proven winner, he guided the Tennessee Titans to the AFC’s No. 1 seed in 2022 with Ryan Tannehill at quarterback. If he can do that with Tannehill, imagine what he can do with Caleb Williams.
4. Todd Monken (OC, Baltimore Ravens)
Success seems to follow Todd Monken wherever he goes. As Georgia’s offensive coordinator in 2021 and 2022, he led the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships. Now, as the Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator, Monken has helped Lamar Jackson win his second MVP while overseeing an explosive offense that leads the league in passing yards, total yards, and rushing yards. His resume speaks for itself.
His experience, combined with fantastic offensive metrics is the reason he’s over guys like Liam Coen and Joe Brady.
Head Coaches to Consider if They Were Fired
1. Kyle Shanahan
In the unlikely event that Shanahan is fired, he would instantly become the top candidate for any team, including the Bears. An offensive guru who’s been one of the best head coaches in the past decade, Shanahan would be an excellent coaching hire for the Bears. Just imagine what he and Caleb Williams could accomplish in Chicago!
2. Kevin Stefanski
Again, Kevin Stefanski is another coach who will be at the top of the list if he were to be fired. It’s remarkable the turnaround the Cleveland Browns had under Stefanski until they ruined it with the Deshaun Watson trade. A two-time Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year, he’ll bring a winning culture to Chicago.
3. Brian Daboll
Although he might not be at the top of the Bears’ list, Daboll is worth considering. He played a key role in transforming Josh Allen into a superstar in Buffalo and orchestrated a remarkable turnaround with the New York Giants in 2022. If the Giants part ways with him, Daboll could be an intriguing candidate for Chicago.
Last Word on Bears Head Coaching Candidates
The Bears have a chance to usher in a new era with their next head coach. Whether it’s an offensive innovator or a proven leader, the right hire could reshape the future of the franchise and unlock the full potential of a roster headlined by Caleb Williams.
Main Image: Daniel Bartel – USA Today Sports
