The Chicago Bears have begun their search for a new head coach. As of this writing, they have met virtually with five candidates, and more are to come. It's clear the organization hopes to be thorough and methodical with the process. It's hard to blame them for that. GM Ryan Poles is leading the search committee with team president Kevin Warren by his side. Still, George McCaskey is the team chairman and owner. His voice will be heard in this decision, even if he's willing to acquiesce to those two.
That is why a recent update from a source told SM that one of the early coaches to interview left a significant impression on McCaskey. Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel met with team brass virtually on Thursday. Word is he made a substantial impression during the three-hour talk, especially on the Bears owner.
"Really blown away" were the words used to describe it.
This will not surprise those who know Vrabel. He is widely respected for his intelligence, charisma, and natural leadership traits. It is said he was well-organized and had a detailed plan for how he would help turn the team around.
George McCaskey won't force the issue, but this feels important.
It is vital to have a coach the owner likes and respects. One of the reasons Lovie Smith worked for so long was that he always had the full confidence of ownership. It appears Vrabel exhibits the traits that McCaskey can get on board with. People have often said he would be too intimidated by a true alpha personality. In reality, there were plenty of signs in Tennessee that Vrabel never clashed with ownership. This isn't another Mike Ditka situation where he butts heads with everybody. Vrabel is just a pure football coach.
Sadly, it may not matter. Every indication over the past couple of days is that he will likely accept the head coaching job with the New England Patriots. It isn't a surprise. He won three Super Bowls there as a player. The reunion feels inevitable. It would take a significant and sudden push from George McCaskey, Poles, and Warren to stop that from happening.
