Bears Expand Coaching Search as McCarthy Enters Free Agency

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bears‘ head coaching search entered its second week with a significant development as former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy became a free agent, opening the door for potential talks with the Bears. McCarthy, who led the Cowboys for five seasons, was previously off-limits due to his contract with Dallas. Now, the Bears can engage with him as early as Wednesday, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The Bears’ coaching candidate list has grown to 19 names, including completed interviews, requested interviews, and reported interest in Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman. With the NFL wild-card round complete, Chicago is poised to interview several high-profile candidates, such as offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

General Manager Ryan Poles emphasized a thorough and potentially surprising search, aiming to find a coach capable of maximizing the potential of former No. 1 pick Justin Fields. Among the candidates is interim Bears head coach Thomas Brown, who has unique insight into Fields and the team’s offense after being promoted twice during the season.

Other notable candidates include Pete Carroll, the former Seattle Seahawks head coach with a Super Bowl win and national championship under his belt, and Ben Johnson, the Lions’ offensive coordinator who led the NFL’s top-scoring offense. The Bears have also shown interest in Ron Rivera, a former head coach with extensive experience and ties to the organization.

As the search continues, the Bears are exploring a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars in the coaching ranks, signaling a commitment to finding the right leader to steer the franchise forward.