Bears' Upcoming Interview With Mike McCarthy Will Have A Significant Twist

The Chicago Bears are meeting with several head coaching candidates over the coming days. They had hoped Mike McCarthy would be one of them. However, the Dallas Cowboys blocked their request for an interview since he was still under contract. Most believed that was a signal McCarthy would land a contract extension. They were wrong. A few days later, the veteran coach was given the green light to explore other options. He is officially a free agent. Chicago was the first team to line up an interview, which takes place on Wednesday, January 15th.

Here is where it gets interesting. Up until now, almost every single interview the Bears have conducted has been virtual, with the exception of Ron Rivera. Most felt that was a way for them to comply with the Rooney Rule, satisfying one of the two necessary meetings with a minority candidate. That is about to change. McCarthy's interview will also be in person.

Mike McCarthy seems to have a clear advantage now.

No, it doesn't guarantee the job is his. Still, most experts believe coaches who interview for jobs in person have a considerable advantage over those on Zoom. The widespread assessment is that McCarthy is an ideal candidate for the Bears. He has a wealth of head coaching experience across 18 seasons. He's won a Super Bowl and successfully developed a young quarterback. Aaron Rodgers became a superstar under his direction in Green Bay. There is no doubt he has something to offer Caleb Williams.

He also knows the NFC North division well. If the Bears were looking for a safe choice with a high chance of making this team competitive, Mike McCarthy is that guy. The fact they're willing to meet him in person so quickly can't be ignored. Don't expect a decision right away. McCarthy is expected to also interview with the New Orleans Saints early next week. Chicago still has several other coaches to meet and are probably awaiting their next opportunity to speak with Ben Johnson, who remains in the playoffs.