The Chicago Bears suffered another difficult defeat, losing 23-20 to their NFC North rival Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving. Despite putting together a decent comeback attempt, the Bears were once again embarrassed at the conclusion. Trailing by three in the dying seconds and in borderline field goal range, Chicago displayed incredibly poor clock management by running one play in the final 36 seconds despite having one remaining timeout.
Both head coach Matt Eberflus and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams were complicit in fumbling the end-of-game clock management. At 4-8, it's incredibly difficult to envision Eberflus returning to the Bears next season. They've never fired a coach midseason, but Thursday's events would warrant bucking that trend.
The Bears will almost certainly appoint a new head coach in 2025. Williams' presence makes Chicago a desirable destination for potential candidates. We've identified three names that should be shortlisted.
Ben Johnson, Lions OC
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will be the hottest name on every coaching wishlist for a second consecutive coaching cycle. The Bears are incredibly familiar with his capabilities. Despite the Lions’ offense going cold in the second half, Johnson put on another play-calling clinic throughout Thursday's Thanksgiving triumph. This should finally be the offseason he agrees to leave Detroit.
Johnson is patiently awaiting the right opportunity to spread his wings. He could have questions regarding the Bears' ownership structure and general leadership. Still, could inheriting Williams as a franchise quarterback be enough to convince him Chicago is the best possible fit for his services? Few coaching vacancies will possess an enticing in-house solution at quarterback. Williams is an ace in the hole.
Kliff Kingsbury, Commanders OC
The Washington Commanders have suffered three consecutive defeats. They’re still 7-5 and exceeding this season’s expectations. Despite their current form, Kliff Kingsbury’s offense is averaging nearly 24 points per game throughout this ongoing losing streak.
Kingsbury has generally done outstanding work with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels this season, potentially positioning him for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Will Kingsbury ever receive another opportunity to be a head coach after failing with the Arizona Cardinals? It's worth noting he helped coach Williams at USC last season as Lincoln Riley's senior offensive assistant. The work he's done with a young quarterback this year should intrigue the Bears as they prioritize Williams' development.
Aaron Glenn, Lions DC
I anticipate the Bears possessing terrific interest in plucking one of the Lions' coordinators away from Dan Campbell. If Johnson proves too lofty, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn would represent a terrific alternative. At an NFL-best 11-1, there's an excellent chance Detroit will lose both Johnson and Glenn this offseason.
The Bears shouldn't force hiring an offensive-minded coach because Eberflus was a defense-first hire. What Chicago requires is a CEO-type leader who can manage all aspects of the organization. A former 15-year player and three-time Pro Bowler, Glenn has patiently been honing his craft alongside Campbell for the previous nine campaigns. He's ready to spearhead a franchise of his own. The Bears should be interested.
