The Chicago Bears are likely headed to hiring their 18th head coach in their long, proud franchise history in 2025. Matt Eberflus has only a 10-24 record in his nearly three seasons, and at 4-7 going into Week 13's Thanksgiving game at NFC North-leading Detroit, the Bears' once-promising playoff hopes had all but faded.
The Bears already fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron in the rookie season of quarterback Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick in 2024. Although there has been some improvement for Williams under interim OC Thomas Brown, if Eberflus is fired at the end of a disappointing season, there should be a big change in the offensive system for Williams in Year 2.
Recent history says the Bears like to toggle between defensive- and offensive-minded head coaches — from Lovie Smith to Marc Trestman to John Fox to Matt Nagy to Eberflus.
With that in mind, here's looking at a group of coaches who would be ideal for Williams next year and beyond.
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Ben Johnson, Lions offensive coordinator
Johnson will get an audition for the Bears while working with the other side on Thursday. The ace play-caller is looking for the right opportunity, and the chance to work with Williams and stay in the division might be the 1-2 punch on top of salary to make the move happen.
Kellen Moore, Eagles offensive coordinator
Moore has been rolling with Jalen Hurts and leading a balanced, explosive attack with a lot of extra running support from Saquon Barkley. Moore's time to be elevated might be here after a third strong OC stint on as many teams.
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Kliff Kingsbury, Commanders offensive coordinator
The Bears should be paying close attention to what he's doing with Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 pick behind Williams. Kingsbury also helped a different No. 1 overall pick, Kyler Murray, become a dynamic dual threat.
Thomas Brown, Bears offensive coordinator
The Bears could think about just elevating Brown if his so-far positive turnaround with Williams continues in the final month-plus. Brown has done better getting more out of Williams by tapping fully into his athletic and arm talent.
Joe Brady, Bills offensive coordinator
Brady helped Joe Burrow become a No. 1 overall pick with his work at LSU before landing in a great spot to call plays for Josh Allen. He, like Moore, might be finally ready despite a still young age.
Mike Locksley, Maryland head coach
Locksley knows Williams' immense talent from the latter's play in the DC area, and he might think heading to the Bears for the chance to work with him is worth moving on from his Terrapins contract.
Lincoln Riley, USC head coach
This would be the massive big fish to reel in — the college coach who helped Williams and others win Heismans in his system. Would Riley grow tired of seeing USC not live up to expectations and trade it for working more with Williams on a regular basis? Don't rule it out.
