According to Senior NFL Insider Dianna Russini, the Chicago Bears have discussed hiring current Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh if they decide to fire Matt Eberflus. What does this mean for the Bears, and how would this change the franchise’s trajectory?
The Chicago Bears have had conversations about possibly hiring Jim Harbaugh if they decide to fire Matt Eberflus, per @DMRussini on @TheHerd.
— Daniel Greenberg (@ChiSportUpdates) November 30, 2023
Chicago Bears Rumored To Discuss Potential Hiring of Head Coach Jim Harbaugh
Why Hire Jim Harbaugh?
Harbaugh has gained tremendous respect from fellow coaches, players, and football fans for his experience in winning as both a player and a coach. As head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2011-2014, Harbaugh had a record of 44 wins, 19 losses, one tie, and one Super Bowl appearance. After a power struggle with then-general manager Trent Baalke, the 49ers decided to part ways with Harbaugh. However, once they did that, the team immediately became one of the worst in the league, going 5-11 in 2015 and 2-14 in 2016.
Not only that, but Harbaugh’s record as head coach of the Michigan Wolverines currently stands at 141 wins and 52 losses. What makes hiring Jim Harbaugh for the Chicago Bears so special is they drafted Harbaugh in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft. He went on to play seven seasons as the quarterback for the Bears.
Harbaugh is known for optimizing player potential and developing quarterbacks. This is essential for NFL organizations hoping to build and improve their skill, particularly at the quarterback position. Harbaugh has the unique opportunity to help fine-tune Justin Fields’ weaknesses and turn them into strengths. Another scenario is where Harbaugh possibly gets his pick of the litter from the 2024 NFL quarterback draft class.
Jim Harbaugh’s Suspension Leading To A Return In The NFL
On Friday, November 10, the Big Ten announced that Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh was suspended for the final three games of the 2023 season for alleged sign-stealing. This jeopardizes his ability to coach football at the college level. With one door rapidly closing on Harbaugh, another door is opening at the NFL level. Harbaugh has demonstrated versatility when coaching football at different levels of play, whether at the collegiate or professional level. The Bears may benefit from this adaptability, particularly in a league where dynamics and strategy change frequently.
How Hiring Jim Harbaugh Will Change The Chicago Bears
The Bears need a coaching change. Matt Eberflus has a record of (7-22) in two seasons as the Bears head coach. Only one of those wins was against a divisional opponent. Ryan Poles has done an adequate job of drafting and signing impact players on both sides of the football, so why hasn’t the team seen results?
What’s holding the Bears back right now is coaching. Bears fans hope to bring in a coach who has proven coaching success, and Harbaugh fits the criteria. Harbaugh has connections to Bears CEO/President Kevin Warren going back to when Warren was the Big 10 Commissioner. The stars are aligning for Harbaugh to become the next head coach of the Chicago Bears.
Main Photo: Kyle Robertson – USA Today Sports
