According to CBS, the Chicago Bears could part ways with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, even though John Fox already indicated that his staff would remain intact. Earlier this season there was a reported "rift" between Fox and Fangio rumored to be about the team's choice to pass the ball more than 60% of the time on offense.
This offensive approach, likely the game plan of new coordinator Dowell Loggains, resulted in Chicago ranking 30th in time of possession for the 2016 season at just over 28 minutes per game. To put that in perspective, the Eagles were ranked first with over 32 and a half minutes per game.
When the offense cannot hold onto the ball, the defense suffers. With Fangio's elite coaching the Bears ranked 15th in total defense, based on yardage, last season. That ranking is a poor reflection of how well of a job Fangio did considering the injuries and the inefficient offense throughout the year.
Most coordinators are doing everything they can to earn a head coaching job, similar to the route Adam Gase took last season from Chicago to Miami. When you take that into consideration, you can see how an embarrassing time of possession stat could put a black eye on the fantastic work Fangio has done.
That's why there was rumored to be frustration between Fox and Fangio, but it was denied by both parties publicly.
However, another job has opened up and if Fangio decides to make a lateral move, the Bears might be shit out of luck.
According to Chris Emma, the Washington Redskins are expected to take a long hard look at Fangio for their open defensive coordinator position. Jay Gruden, the head coach in Washington, scrambled trying to bring in Fangio back in 2015 when he left San Francisco but had already hired a new defensive coordinator before he became available. Gruden still attempted to setup an interview, but Fangio was hired in Chicago two days later.
Fox said on Wednesday that his staff would remain together, but he said previously he would never restrict his coaches from moving up ... or laterally.
“I want our whole staff back, ” said Fox, who has since reportedly fired two assistants. “Now whether that proves to be a reality or not, things happen. Guys get jobs, get head jobs, get chances to advance their careers.”
There are SEVERAL jobs open around the NFL that Fangio could be considered for, including head coaching options. Bears fans rejoiced when they heard Fox say Fangio would be back on Wednesday, but now we are finding out that isn't promised in any way.
Stay tuned.
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