For long stretches during the season, it looked like Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus was deader than a door-nail.
However, considering how strong the Bears finished the season, it became apparent that Eberflus’ job was more than likely saved.
Sure enough, Chicago made it official yesterday as they announced he would remain their head coach … However, heads needed to roll, and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy along with quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko, wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert, running backs coach Omar Young, and assistant tight ends coach Tim Zetts were let go.
Classic Bears to just decide to keep Eberflus before even exploring other options
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— The Mid Show (@StoolMidShow) January 10, 2024
Eberflus, who has led the Bears for the past two seasons, will continue at the helm despite a challenging 7-10 record in the 2023 season. The decision comes after the team showed signs of promise, winning four of their final six games.
Eberflus, with a 10-24 record over two seasons in Chicago, previously served as a defensive assistant coach in the NFL for 13 years. He culminated his tenure with a four-year stint as the Colts defensive coordinator from 2018 to 2021.
The firing of offensive coordinator Getsy raises questions about the future direction of the Bears offense. The team faces a critical decision at the quarterback position, debating whether to stick with Justin Fields in his fourth season or use the #1 draft pick on a rookie quarterback such as Caleb Williams or Drake Maye.
Matt Eberflus: “We love where Justin is right now… And he will continue to grow as we grow this football team.”
Justin Fields will be QB1 for the Bears in 2024. pic.twitter.com/vorM1cRI9l
— Justin Fields Fan Club (@JustinFieldsFC) January 10, 2024
During the 2023 season, player frustrations with the offense were evident, particularly in Week 3 when Fields attributed his “robotic” play to coaching.
Wide receiver DJ Moore also expressed concerns about the lack of consistent explosive plays hindering the team’s success.
I think I’m the only one in Chicago not upset about Eberflus coming back. 😂
I think Poles and Warren made the right decision. The team doubled their wins and the defense looked better.
Offense another story. Getsy had to be held accountable for performance. #DaBears #Bears
— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) January 10, 2024
The Bears offense showed improvement down the stretch and ended up ranking 17th in points per game (20.4 ppg). The passing offense finished 27th (182.1 ypg), while the rushing attack claimed the second spot in the NFL (141.1 ypg).
Despite individual achievements such as Moore and tight end Cole Kmet reaching career highs in receiving yards, inconsistencies in the passing game under Getsy were evident.
It’s clear the Bears have a whole lot more work to do. The firings won’t magically fix the offense.
The biggest question is should Chicago stick with Fields at quarterback?
Would they be better off trading Fields, getting what they can for him, and then drafting Williams or Maye with the first overall pick?
What do you think the Bears should do???
Matt Eberflus seeing Pete Carroll and Mike Vrabel get fired but he stays: pic.twitter.com/syNfqLGy1t
— NFL Notifications (@NFLNotify) January 10, 2024