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, making him available for interviews. The Bears, who had previously been denied permission to interview McCarthy while he was under contract with the Cowboys, wasted no time in scheduling a meeting with him on Wednesday.

The Bears’ coaching search now includes 19 candidates, with nine interviews completed and nine more requested. Among the notable names are offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and defensive coordinator Brian Flores. The team has also expressed interest in Notre Dame‘s Marcus Freeman, whose team is set to compete in the College Football Playoff National Championship game.

General Manager Ryan Poles emphasized the thoroughness of the search, stating that the team aims to find a coach who can maximize the potential of former No. 1 pick Justin Fields. “We’re looking for someone who can bring out the best in our players and lead us to success,” Poles said.

McCarthy, who has led teams to the playoffs in 12 of his 18 seasons as an NFL head coach, brings a wealth of experience. However, questions remain about his game management, particularly in the postseason. The Cowboys were the most penalized team in the NFL during his tenure, averaging 8.2 total penalties per game.

Other candidates include interim Bears head coach Thomas Brown, who has intimate knowledge of the team’s offense, and Pete Carroll, the former Seattle Seahawks head coach with a Super Bowl victory to his name. Carroll, 74, has the most head coaching experience among the candidates and spent the 2024 season as an adviser with Seattle.

The Bears are also considering Aaron Glenn, the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, who led a top-ranked defense this season. Ben Johnson, the Lions’ offensive coordinator, is another high-profile candidate after orchestrating the NFL’s top-scoring offense.

As the search continues, the Bears are committed to finding the right leader to steer the team back to prominence. “This is a critical decision for our organization,” Poles added. “We’re leaving no stone unturned.”