The Chicago Bears replaced Matt Eberflus from his head coaching duties in November, just one day after receiving significant blame for mismanaging the clock in a 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions.
Eberflus’ nearly three-year tenure in the Windy City was marred by a flurry of last-second losses and ended with a six-game losing streak. Thomas Brown became interim head coach.
The Bears are now searching for the franchise’s next head coach and have already interviewed several candidates, in line with general manager Ryan Poles’ previous promise to cast a wide net in the search.
But according to a new report from ESPN, one of the ways the team explored to fill the head coaching vacancy was to acquire the Steelers head coach. Mike Tomlin through a trade.
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Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin watches from the sidelines during the first half against the Houston Texans on Oct. 1, 2023, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
According to the report, the Bears recently contacted the Steelers to inquire about possibly allowing them to speak with the Super Bowl-winning coach and possibly complete a trade. The Steelers denied the request, sources told ESPN.
It is believed the talks did not reach Tomlin, who recently responded to questions about potential trade offers from other teams with a simple message: “Save your time.” Tomlin’s contract reportedly contains a no-trade clause.
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The Steelers finished the regular season with a 10–7 record, maintaining Tomlin’s distinction of never having a record below .500. However, the team ended the season with a four-game losing streak.
Pittsburgh was then knocked out of the playoffs by the Baltimore Ravens in the wildcard round. It’s been eight years since the Steelers have won a playoff game.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during the first half of a wild card playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens on January 11, 2025 in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is believed to be one of the most sought-after candidates in this recruiting cycle. The Bears made the announcement earlier this week Johnson interviewed.
They also interviewed Arthur Smith, Brian Flores, Mike McCarthyformer Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and several others.
A Chicago Bears helmet during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, August 22, 2024. (Denny Medley/USA Today Sports)
Despite finishing the season with a 5-12 record, Chicago’s roster features talent at key positions. The Bears’ next head coach will be tasked with developing a quarterback Caleb Williamsthe top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The coaching staff will also have the opportunity to work with wide receivers Rome Odunze and DJ Moore.
Elsewhere, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds is a two-time Pro Bowler and Jaylon Johnson is a talented cornerback.
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While the New England Patriots filled their short-term head coaching vacancy by hiring Mike Vrabelthe Bears, Jets, Saints, Jaguars and Raiders continue their respective quests.
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