Chicago Bears team president Kevin Warren confidently stated that the team’s head coach vacancy would be the “most coveted job in the National Football League this year.” He’s not wrong. With over $80 million in cap space, a promising young quarterback, and foundational players on both sides of the ball, the Bears have plenty to offer. However, Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk floated the idea of the Bears trading for a head coach, with one coach contacting him to ask, “Why didn’t you mention me on that list?”
After @ProFootballTalk floated the idea of the Bears trading for a head coach and cited specific names, he had a different coach contact him to ask, "Why didn't you mention me on that list?"
"It proves to me there's merit to the idea," Florio says.
More: https://t.co/DtsucIW6ZI pic.twitter.com/q0KAitPg4W
— 670 The Score (@670TheScore) December 4, 2024
The Bears Shouldn’t Float With the Idea of Trading for a Head Coach
Let’s say the Bears send a first-round or second-round pick to acquire a coach like Kyle Shanahan or Sean McVay. Great, now the Bears have their guy at head coach, but no one to protect Caleb Williams. It may sound like an exaggeration, but the Bears are in no position to give up top draft picks for a head coach. Free agency alone won’t solve all the team’s issues despite their substantial cap space. If they truly want to take the next step in 2025, keeping all the top draft picks is vital.
Kyle Shanahan on #Bears QB Caleb Williams pic.twitter.com/XHzqxrRR1c
— 🎡 (@CalebToDJ) December 4, 2024
Plenty of Great Options for the Bears
If Kevin Warren truly believes the Bears job is the most desirable in the league, why would the team need to trade for a coach? The Bears missed out on strong candidates like Jim Harbaugh and Dan Quinn last offseason, but now, it’s time to make the right hire.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will actually be the most coveted head coaching option for NFL teams this offseason. Despite not having any actual head coaching experience, Johnson is the offensive mastermind behind the Lions 11-1 start and dominant performance on offense.
Mike Vrabel is another name to watch. With his proven track record and leadership qualities, Vrabel aligns with what the Bears need—a leader of men who can establish a winning culture.
Perhaps the most intriguing candidate is already within the organization: Thomas Brown. In just three weeks, Brown ascended from passing game coordinator to offensive coordinator to interim head coach. His laser-focused approach and instant chemistry with Caleb Williams have gained respect within the locker room. The Bears now have a unique opportunity to evaluate Brown over the next five games and determine if he’s the right fit.
Read More: Ranking Bears Head Coach Candidates After Matt Eberflus’ Firing
Last Word on the Bears Trading for a Head Coach
There are plenty of other candidates who could make a compelling case to become the next Bears head coach. However, the most coveted job opening should be able to attract the best options. It just doesn’t make sense to trade for a head coach. There’s even a chance Kyle Shanahan might be fired after the season, or he decides to leave the San Francisco 49ers. However, the Bears main priority should be building a roster capable of playoff contention while ensuring they don’t jeopardize Caleb Williams’ development. Let’s hope they make the right decision when hiring the next head coach.
Main Image: Kelley L. Cox – USA Today Sports
