After this season, all signs point to the Chicago Bears firing head coach Matt Eberflus. Under his leadership, the Bears never had a winning season, and Eberflus has mismanaged countless situations that resulted in devastating losses. Over the last three seasons, the Bears have lost five games despite having a 90% or higher chance to win and hold an NFL-worst 5-17 record in one-score games under Eberflus. The list goes on and on, and a change seems inevitable. That said, here are some sleeper candidates for the next Bears head coach.
Sleeper Candidates for the Next Chicago Bears Head Coach
Ben Johnson (OC, Detroit Lions)
This isn’t a sleeper pick, but Ben Johnson should be the No. 1 option for the Bears. He’s turned the Detroit Lions’ offense into the most dominant unit in the NFL. Johnson will undoubtedly be the most sought-after coach this offseason. However, it all depends on where Johnson wants to go and if the Bears will stop being stingy and pay up for a good coach.
Read More: Ben Johnson Makes Perfect Sense as the Next Bears Head Coach
Ben Johnson heard there might be another job opening up pic.twitter.com/7BrR3ZcId3
— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) November 17, 2024
Todd Monken (OC, Baltimore Ravens)
If the Bears are looking for a proven coach with a strong track record of developing quarterbacks, Todd Monken is an excellent choice. Currently working as the Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator, Monken has 10 years of NFL experience and played a pivotal role in Georgia’s back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. He helped Lamar Jackson win his second MVP last season and now leads a Ravens offense that tops the league in passing yards, total yards per game, and rushing yards. Monken deserves a shot as an NFL head coach and should be on the Bears’ radar.
Klint Kubiak (OC, New Orleans Saints)
Although the New Orleans Saints aren’t doing the best, the offense has been surprisingly good, even with Derek Carr as the starting QB. Klint Kubiak, son of ex-NFL head coach Gary Kubiak, is leading the Saints offense with one of the NFL’s highest EPA per play and dropback EPA. Kubiak, who learned under 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, could bring a quarterback-friendly system to Chicago—a perfect fit for a young talent like Caleb Williams.
Thomas Brown (OC, Chicago Bears)
The Bears’ current offensive coordinator, Thomas Brown, also deserves consideration. Well-regarded by the players, Brown quickly improved the offense after taking over play-calling duties, as shown in the team’s competitive performance against a strong Packers defense. A member of the Sean McVay coaching tree, Brown has been praised by him as “one of the greatest competitors” he’s worked with. If continuity is a priority, Brown is the best option for the Bears.
The Bears offense under Shane Waldron vs. Thomas Brown. pic.twitter.com/rt0PNpZDxx
— Marquee Bears (@BearsMarquee) November 20, 2024
Mike Vrabel (Ex-HC, Tennessee Titans)
The only defensive-minded coach on this list, Mike Vrabel was the main reason the Tennessee Titans were competitive before their recent decline. He led the Titans to become the 1st seed in the AFC playoffs back in 2022 with Mike Tannehill as the starting quarterback and is widely respected for his leadership and ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. To put it nicely, he knows how to win the NFL and would make more intelligent decisions than Matt Eberflus.
Drew Petzing (OC, Arizona Cardinals)
Finally, the Arizona Cardinals’ offensive coordinator, Drew Petzing, has been instrumental in their offensive success this season. The Cardinals currently lead the NFC West, with Kyler Murray playing at an MVP level. Petzing’s rise through the coaching ranks demonstrates his ability to lead a successful NFL offense, making him a compelling candidate to elevate the Bears’ offense.
Last Word on Bears Head Coach Candidates
The Bears need a coach who can maximize their talent, particularly on offense, and bring much-needed stability and vision. These candidates offer a range of expertise and potential to help turn the Bears around. Let’s hope they finally make the right decision.
Main Image: Daniel Bartel – USA Today Sports
