The Chicago Bears have fired offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, a move that comes as no surprise to anyone who follows the team closely. The Bears offense improved minimally in 2023, mostly as a result of an improved roster. Chicago is now in a tough position. Obviously, the Bears need almost an entirely new offensive staff. However, they also need to find an offensive coordinator comfortable with working under head coach Matt Eberflus, who is reportedly returning with the Bears in 2024. Whoever takes the position likely ties their job security to Eberflus, who some considered on the hot seat heading into this offseason.
First, some factors to consider for potential candidates to lead the Bears offense in 2024.
Factors for Potential Bears Offensive Coordinators
Overall Roster Strength
While much improved from 2022, Chicago’s offense still showed weak points in 2023. Whether or not it was a result of the previous coordinator, wide receiver Darnell Mooney was almost non-existent as the presumed second option this season. Bears top receiver D.J. Moore and tight end Cole Kmet are reliable targets, but an offense needs more than two options to succeed. Another roster aspect to consider is the strength of the offensive line. Again, much improved from the previous year, but still somewhat serviceable rather than a true positive. The running back room is another position group that doesn’t scream talent but isn’t a bad room by any means.
Quarterback Decision
Probably one of, if not the biggest factor when it comes to hiring a new offensive coordinator is the decision at quarterback. Following the trend in the last 7 years, it seems likely the Bears may select a rookie quarterback.
Rookie Mitch Trubisky was with John Fox, who was fired and replaced with Matt Nagy. Trubisky left the team and was replaced with rookie Justin Fields. Matt Nagy was fired and replaced with Matt Eberflus. History repeats itself, but this obviously doesn’t confirm the path ahead for Chicago. It definitely is worth mentioning, however. The question of whether a new coordinator will want their job tied to a Fields reclamation endeavor or a rookie quarterback is an important discussion that will need to be resolved.
Bears Draft Capital
A rookie quarterback, of course, will factor into hiring a new coordinator. Additionally, the 2024 NFL Draft class contains many talented offensive prospects. Bears fans have pounded the table for talented prospects such as wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr of Ohio State. Others wish for the talented receiver Rome Odunze out of the University of Washington or the top tight end prospect from Georgia, Brock Bowers. Regardless, two first-round selections could be enticing for a new coordinator.
Now, a look at potential candidates to lead the Bears’ offense in 2024.
Play-Calling Candidates For Chicago
Shane Waldron – Seahawks Offensive Coordinator
Likely to be the hottest commodity on the market, Seahawks offensive coordinator Shane Waldron has options across the league. It was recently announced Pete Carrol will no longer serve as the team’s head coach in 2024, but will likely be elevated in some capacity.
Another impactful note regarding Waldron and Seattle’s coaching staff, per NFL on CBS insider Jonathan Jones:
Source: Members of the Seahawks coaching staff have been told they are free to look elsewhere for jobs. The new coach will have full autonomy over the staff.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) January 10, 2024
Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has been linked to Seattle, but it remains to be seen if Waldron will remain with the Seahawks or pursue other positions. It hasn’t been reported if he would make a lateral move or pursue a head coaching position. Waldron at the very least should be given an interview in Chicago if that opportunity came about. As this is written, the Chicago Bears have requested an interview with Seattle’s offensive coordinator, per Tom Pelissero.
The #Bears requested an interview with #Seahawks offensive coordinator Shane Waldron for their OC job, per source.
With Pete Carroll out, Seattle’s assistants are now available, and Chicago is moving quickly after making a change today.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 11, 2024
Darrell Bevell – Dolphins Passing Game Coordinator
For those wishing for experience, Miami’s Darrell Bevell has exactly that. Bevell spent four years in different roles at the collegiate level from 1996-99. He then worked with the Green Bay Packers as a quarterbacks coach from 2001 to 2005, remaining in the NFC North to work with the Minnesota Vikings as their offensive coordinator for five seasons.
After his span in the North, Bevell worked with the Seattle Seahawks as their offensive coordinator during their Super Bowl window, winning one of two appearances. In four of the seven years Bevell worked with Seattle, the Seahawks were top 15 in points per game, per Pro Football Reference. Following Seattle, Miami’s passing game coordinator also briefly spent time in Detroit and Jacksonville as offensive coordinator for both teams.
For what it’s worth, Bevell also has interim coaching experience. Just in case things go south for Chicago in 2024.
Frank Reich – Former Carolina Panthers Head Coach
This is likely the most “out there” hire the Bears could make, but also one that makes the most sense. Head coach Matt Eberflus has a strong connection to Reich due to their time in Indianapolis together. Reich as of late is known for a 1-10 record with the Carolina Panthers and rookie quarterback Bryce Young. His career has been bogged by inconsistent quarterback play, but given the chance to work with either Justin Fields or a rookie quarterback to his liking, Reich could be a good fit for Chicago’s offense.
Granted, it helps when ownership doesn’t interfere in player preference. Reich would likely play a large role in a quarterback selection, if that were to occur.
Greg Roman – Former Baltimore Ravens Offensive Coordinator
Greg Roman has been the topic of discussion among Bears Twitter/X when thinking of coordinators to help develop Justin Fields. As is everything with this fanbase, the opinions are split right down the middle.
Roman is most known for guiding the Ravens to a league-leading 33.2 points per game in 2019, the same year Lamar Jackson won Most Valuable Player. Roman would likely heavily employ the use of tight ends and a strong run game, as he did in Baltimore. Bears fans often like to compare Fields to Jackson in their playstyles. Perhaps Roman would be open to unlocking Fields’ natural ability?
As mentioned previously, it seems the Bears have begun their hiring process. Shane Waldron is their first interview request of this cycle, with many more sure to follow.
Main Photo: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
