Top Chicago Bears Head Coach Candidates and Potential Staffs to Build

Matt Eberflus has a limited five games remaining to salvage his position. His future seems precarious, given the string of losses, internal conflict, and fourth-quarter collapses. The odds of a last-minute turnaround appear slim, and many already anticipate his departure. Chicago Bears president Kevin Warren may have a shakeup in mind, with the head coach being the primary focus.

If Eberflus is indeed on his way out, the Bears have several potential candidates to fill the role. However, the success of a head coach is also heavily dependent on his support staff. Here’s a glimpse at the leading candidates and the potential lieutenants they could bring in.

The Chicago Bears candidate list is diverse and connected.

Jim Harbaugh

• OC: Greg Roman
• DC: Ejiro Evero

Harbaugh and Roman, previously colleagues in San Francisco, transformed the team into a dominant force. Roman possesses a proven ability to maximize the potential of dual-threat quarterbacks, as demonstrated by Colin Kaepernick and Lamar Jackson. Evero, another former assistant under Harbaugh, played a vital role in the Rams’ Super Bowl win in 2021 and has gained recognition as one of the top defensive coordinators in recent years.

Ben Johnson

• OC: Mark Brunell
• DC: Todd Wash

Given Johnson’s responsibility for play-calling, his offensive coordinator should be both organized and supportive of the quarterback. Brunell’s extensive experience as a Pro Bowl QB in Jacksonville and later as the Lions’ quarterbacks coach makes him an ideal fit. Wash, who previously worked alongside Johnson in Detroit and Carolina, is renowned for nurturing top-ranking defensive units.

Eric Bieniemy

• OC: Darrell Bevell
• DC: Ron Rivera

Bieniemy and Bevell, with a history of collaboration in Minnesota, boast Super Bowl-winning experience as offensive coordinators. Their combined expertise and play-calling abilities would be invaluable in coaching the Bears’ quarterbacks. Rivera, while sidelined as Washington’s head coach, has a strong track record as a defensive coordinator, consistently developing top-tier defensive units.

Brian Johnson

• OC: Kevin Patullo
• DC: Todd Grantham

Johnson, a youthful option, aligns best with his colleague from Philadelphia, Patullo, known for his success with quarterbacks and wide receivers. Grantham, with NFL coordinating experience and a knack for crafting stout defensive units, perfectly complements Johnson’s offensive expertise.

Kellen Moore

• OC: Doug Nussmeier
• DC: Brandon Staley

Nussmeier, previously associated with a collegiate national championship-winning team, has a longstanding partnership with Moore. Staley’s proven success in leading the No. 1 defense in the league makes him an ideal pick for Moore’s potential coaching staff.

Bobby Slowik

• OC: Shane Day
• DC: James Bettcher

Slowik’s impact on rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud’s performance is undeniable, highlighting his coaching prowess. Day, with extensive NFL experience, and Bettcher, known for forcing turnovers, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.