Chicago Bears' 7th OC Candidate Emerges. Is Most Curious Yet

It felt like only a matter of time before the Chicago Bears spoke to an offensive coordinator candidate who has actual direct ties to head coach Matt Eberflus. That finally took place with the seventh reported interview. According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the Bears have requested a chance to speak with Philadelphia Eagles senior assistant Marcus Brady. The 44-year-old was an assistant with the Indianapolis Colts from 2018 through 2021, first as the quarterbacks coach and then offensive coordinator. Eberflus was there during the same time period, so they have a relationship.

Brady has a somewhat unique track record. His football history stems mostly from Canada. He played quarterback there from 2002 to 2008 before transitioning to coaching in 2009. That transition saw him find immediate success, winning three Grey Cup titles. Two came as a wide receivers coach in Montreal and another as offensive coordinator in Toronto. That is what led the Colts to bring him in. He helped get quality seasons from 39-year-old Philip Rivers and even Carson Wentz.

Brady joined the Eagles' staff in 2022 and helped Jalen Hurts deliver an MVP-caliber campaign, reaching the Super Bowl. This season hasn't been as productive but was still a success.

Are the Chicago Bears serious about Brady as a candidate?

Maybe. He produced a top-3 offense twice during his run in the CFL as a coordinator. That was as a playcaller. Then he helped deliver the #9 scoring offense and #2 rushing attack under Frank Reich in 2021. So he has a solid track record, if not a lengthy one. Still, he doesn't quite have the same level of experience as other candidates they've met with. It leads one to think they have wanted to talk to him about other open spots on the coaching staff. Remember, he has experience coaching both quarterbacks and wide receivers.

Since Brady is only a "senior offensive assistant" in Philadelphia, it probably wouldn't be a hard sell to offer a more defined role in Chicago. His track record coaching quarterbacks is a strong one. As always, the situation is fluid. The Bears may want to get his thoughts on the roster, Justin Fields, and what he's seeing from the QBs in the upcoming draft. He brings a unique perspective with his CFL background. It will be interesting to see if they try bringing him onto the staff. If it's as offensive coordinator, that would be a bold move.