One Overlooked Reason Matt Eberflus' Replacement Will Be Offensive-Minded

Matt Eberflus feels like he's clinging to the Chicago Bears head coaching job by his fingernails. The 4th quarter collapse in Detroit felt like a death blow to his chances of getting a third season. He's only won six games on the job. People say patience is necessary for a rebuild to get off the ground. Yet, expecting progress in the win column is not a crime. The Bears haven't seen it from Eberflus. He's conservative to a fault, doesn't handle situational football well, and doesn't seem to coach a well-disciplined team. Now, there is an undercurrent of belief that changes are coming.

Given how these things play out, there is an assumption the Bears will likely replace Eberflus with an offensive-minded head coach. It makes sense. They will want somebody who can take Justin Fields to the next level or handle the development of a potential top-2 pick. However, the reasoning behind such a move goes beyond that. There is another layer to such a decision. It is a strong possibility that the coaching market will be flooded with quality defensive coordinator options in January.

Here is a list of prominent names on the hot seat or work on a staff under one who is.

• Brandon Staley
• Ron Rivera
• Sean McDermott
• Robert Saleh
• Ejiro Evero
• Todd Wash
• Dennis Allen
• Todd Bowles

It's unlikely all of those coaches will become available, but some will. Care to know what they all have in common? Each has coordinated a top 10 defense at least once in their careers. Pairing one with a (hopefully) capable offensive head coach could set the Bears up for success in 2024.

Matt Eberflus talks about accountability but rarely shows it.

His team is 3-8, but all he does is insist that things are trending in the right direction. There is nothing wrong with the scheming or in-game situations. Execution is the problem. Nothing about his tenure suggests the man has the necessary qualities to get this team to a championship. He employs an outdated defensive system and chose to rely on an inexperienced assistant to run the offense. People hoped he might have the right idea. Sadly, that hasn't been the case. While the roster has improved talent-wise, it's increasingly clear the coaching has held it back.

There will be intriguing options on the market. Ben Johnson of Detroit, Kellen Moore of Los Angeles, and Eric Bieniemy of Washington are the most prominent offensive names mentioned. Bobby Slowik of Houston is also gaining traction. Jim Harbaugh has an offensive background as well. It will come down to who the Bears think has the best leadership qualities. Matt Eberflus had plenty of chances to save his job this season. He fumbled them all. That is nobody's fault but his own.