The Chicago Bears have officially launched the search for their next head coach following a disappointing 2024 NFL season that wrapped up with a dismal 5-12 record. Just 24 hours after the season’s conclusion, the team has already begun requesting interviews with a host of head coaching candidates, with rumors swirling around big names like former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll.
The Bears’ former head coach, Matt Eberflus, was fired after the team’s 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day. This decision came in the wake of a six-game losing streak that started with a defeat against the Washington Commanders in week 8. General manager Ryan Poles expressed gratitude for Eberflus’s hard work, professionalism, and dedication to the organization, while wishing him and his family the best in their future endeavors.
Eberflus, who became the first head coach in franchise history to be fired during a regular season, had a 14-32 record in two-plus seasons with the Bears. Thomas Brown, who was recently promoted to offensive coordinator after Shane Waldron’s departure, took over as interim head coach to finish out the 2024 season.
### Interview Requests
The Bears are planning to hold interviews with at least seven candidates for their head coaching position. General Manager Ryan Poles is expected to address the media from Halas Hall at 10 a.m. on Tuesday to provide further details.
#### Drew Petzing, Arizona Cardinals Offensive Coordinator
The Bears have reached out to Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing for an interview. Petzing has been instrumental in developing players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride while helping the Cardinals build one of the league’s top rushing offenses.
#### Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, Detroit Lions Coordinators
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn have also been requested for interviews by the Bears. Johnson led the Lions to the second-best offense in the NFL, while Glenn oversaw one of the league’s best scoring defenses.
#### Anthony Weaver, Miami Dolphins Defensive Coordinator
Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is another candidate on the Bears’ interview list. Weaver’s strong defensive performance with the Dolphins this season has caught the attention of the Bears’ management.
#### Vance Joseph, Denver Broncos Defensive Coordinator
Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph is also being considered for the head coaching position by the Bears. Joseph has prior experience as a head coach with the Broncos and has excelled in leading the team’s defense.
#### Mike Vrabel, Former Tennessee Titans Head Coach
Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel is set to interview with the Bears, presenting a strong case for consideration given his successful track record in the league.
#### Thomas Brown, Chicago Bears Interim Head Coach
Interim head coach Thomas Brown, who took over the role after Eberflus’s departure, will also be interviewed by the Bears following his commendable performance in leading the team.
#### Other Candidates
The Bears have also expressed interest in interviewing several other candidates, including Todd Monken, Mike McCarthy, Brian Flores, Arthur Smith, Mike Kafka, and David Shaw, as they continue their search for a new head coach.
