Chicago Bears coaching search: Who we know might be a good fit for the position and why (or not)
The Chicago Bears are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NFL. Over the years, they have produced legendary players and coaches, but recent seasons have been filled with disappointment and frustration. Inconsistent performances, questionable decisions, and an inability to build a team capable of competing for championships have left the franchise searching for a new direction. As they enter another coaching search, the question is clear: Who is the right fit to lead the Chicago Bears back to prominence?
Given the franchise’s history and passionate fan base, the Bears’ head coaching job is among the most coveted in the NFL. However, it also comes with its challenges. Chicago has had a revolving door of head coaches in recent years, with only a few showing any real signs of long-term success. The team has struggled with developing a top-tier quarterback, maintaining consistency on both sides of the ball, and creating an identity that makes them a contender year after year.
As the Bears continue their search for the next head coach, a few names have emerged as potential candidates. Each candidate brings a unique skill set and philosophy, but the question remains: Which one will be the right fit for a franchise in dire need of a turnaround? Below, we’ll analyze the most prominent candidates for the position, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, and consider how they might fit (or not) with the Chicago Bears’ current needs.
1. Ben Johnson (Detroit Lions Offensive Coordinator)
Why He Could Be a Good Fit:
Ben Johnson has quickly risen through the ranks as one of the most innovative offensive minds in the NFL. As the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, Johnson has helped transform the team’s offense into one of the most potent in the league. Under his leadership, the Lions have consistently been among the top teams in terms of offensive efficiency, blending a balanced attack that leverages the talents of quarterback Jared Goff, running back Jamaal Williams, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.
For the Bears, whose offense has been inconsistent and underwhelming for years, Johnson would bring a breath of fresh air. His offensive prowess would be an immediate upgrade over what Chicago has experienced in recent seasons. The Bears have an exciting young quarterback in Justin Fields, and Johnson’s ability to build a system around Fields’ strengths—such as his ability to extend plays with his legs and throw on the move—could be the catalyst to unlock the potential of Chicago’s offense. Johnson also demonstrated a solid understanding of how to maximize the talent of his players, which would help develop Fields into a franchise quarterback.
Why He Might Not Be the Right Fit:
While Johnson’s offensive success is undeniable, he has limited experience as a head coach. His time as the offensive coordinator in Detroit is his first high-profile coaching gig, and the Bears may be hesitant to take a chance on a first-time head coach. Leading a team with a young quarterback and a rebuilding roster is a different challenge from managing an entire franchise. Johnson would need to surround himself with a strong staff and show that he can handle the defensive side of the ball and the organizational challenges of being a head coach.
2. Sean Payton (Former New Orleans Saints Head Coach)
Why He Could Be a Good Fit:
Sean Payton is one of the most respected and accomplished coaches in the NFL. After a long and successful tenure with the New Orleans Saints, where he won a Super Bowl and established the Saints as a perennial contender, Payton’s name is one of the most sought-after in coaching circles. His offensive expertise and ability to develop quarterbacks are well-documented, making him an intriguing candidate for the Bears, particularly given their need to elevate Justin Fields.
Payton has a proven track record of success, and his leadership could be just what the Bears need to turn their franchise around. His reputation for developing quarterbacks is exactly what the Bears need as they continue to work with Fields. If Payton can harness Fields’ raw potential, he could help the Bears become one of the most dynamic offenses in the league, much like Payton did with Drew Brees in New Orleans.
Why He Might Not Be the Right Fit:
The main concern with Payton is the potential for a lengthy rebuild in Chicago. Payton may be looking for a team that is closer to contention, and the Bears are far from that. They need major upgrades in multiple areas, including offensive line play, wide receiver talent, and overall defensive consistency. Additionally, Payton may be more focused on a job with an established quarterback, as evidenced by his interest in teams like the Denver Broncos. If Payton is not willing to commit to a multi-year rebuild, he may look elsewhere.
Furthermore, Payton’s high expectations for control over personnel decisions and the overall direction of the franchise may not align with the Bears’ organizational structure. The Bears have historically preferred a more collaborative approach, and Payton’s top-down style could clash with the front office’s decision-making processes.
3. Jim Harbaugh (University of Michigan Head Coach)
Why He Could Be a Good Fit:
Jim Harbaugh is a coach with a pedigree of success in both the NFL and college football. As the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, Harbaugh led the team to a Super Bowl appearance and a series of successful seasons, transforming a franchise that had been struggling into a perennial contender. His no-nonsense, disciplined approach could be just what the Bears need to regain their edge.
Harbaugh’s ability to develop quarterbacks is another strong selling point. While he didn’t quite unlock the full potential of Alex Smith with the 49ers, his work with Colin Kaepernick proved that he can guide a young, dynamic quarterback to success. If the Bears hire Harbaugh, he could work wonders with Justin Fields, helping him improve his decision-making, mechanics, and overall development. Harbaugh is also known for his toughness and building a strong team culture—traits that are often associated with successful teams, especially in a market like Chicago.
Why He Might Not Be the Right Fit:
The biggest hurdle for Harbaugh might be his desire to return to the NFL, after several years of success at Michigan. While Harbaugh enjoyed success with the 49ers, his abrupt departure from the NFL left some questions about his willingness to remain in the pro ranks long-term. Additionally, Harbaugh’s personality has been described as abrasive and demanding, which could be a concern in a market like Chicago, where the media scrutiny can be intense.
Moreover, Harbaugh may have his sights set on a specific type of job—such as one with a more established roster or a franchise with greater resources. The Bears’ current roster is in a rebuilding phase, and Harbaugh may prefer a situation where he doesn’t have to undergo another lengthy rebuild. Harbaugh’s intense style may also clash with the Bears’ culture if they are not fully committed to a strict, no-nonsense approach.
4. Brian Flores (Pittsburgh Steelers Defensive Assistant)
Why He Could Be a Good Fit:
Brian Flores is one of the most respected defensive minds in the NFL. After a successful tenure as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, Flores built a reputation as a defensive mastermind and a coach who knows how to get the most out of his players. Flores helped turn around the Dolphins’ defense and had success with a roster that was far from loaded with talent.
The Bears have long been known for their strong defense, and Flores would be a great fit for a team that still has strong defensive talent, particularly with players like Roquan Smith and Khalil Mack. His approach would likely be able to get the most out of the defensive side of the ball, which is crucial to the Bears’ success. Moreover, Flores would likely be able to develop a culture of accountability and discipline, both on defense and throughout the team.
Why He Might Not Be the Right Fit:
Flores’ lack of experience with offensive strategy might be a concern, especially given the Bears’ need for a quarterback development plan. While Flores’ defensive acumen is unquestioned, his limited experience with building offensive systems may be problematic in a league where the offensive side of the ball is increasingly important. The Bears will need a head coach who can effectively balance both sides of the ball, and it may be difficult for Flores to find the right offensive coordinator who shares his vision.
Additionally, Flores’ departure from Miami was somewhat contentious, with reports indicating that he had disagreements with the front office. Given that the Bears are still in a rebuilding phase, it’s possible that Flores’ desire for full control over personnel could lead to friction with the front office, which could be a dealbreaker for a franchise looking for harmony between coach and general manager.
5. DeMeco Ryans (San Francisco 49ers Defensive Coordinator)
Why He Could Be a Good Fit:
DeMeco Ryans has emerged as one of the top defensive minds in the NFL. As the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, Ryans has helped transform the team’s defense into one of the most feared units in the league. His ability to develop defensive talent and create aggressive, high-pressure schemes would be an asset to the Bears, who have always valued strong defensive play.
Ryans also has experience working with talented players like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, which could help him maximize the potential of players like Roquan Smith and the Bears’ young defensive core. The Bears’ defense has been a consistent strength, but it has lacked consistency and big-game performances in recent years. Ryans could be the answer to unlocking the full potential of that unit.
Why He Might Not Be the Right Fit:
While Ryans is an excellent defensive coordinator, his lack of head coaching experience is a major concern. The transition from defensive coordinator to head coach is challenging, and Ryans would need to prove that he can handle the offensive side of the ball, as well as manage all aspects of a team. If the Bears hire Ryans, they would need to ensure that he surrounds himself with a strong offensive coaching staff, or else the team could struggle to improve offensively.
