Bears Eye Rams’ Aubrey Pleasant for Defensive Coordinator Role

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Bears have requested to interview Los Angeles Rams assistant head coach and passing game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant for their vacant defensive coordinator position, according to NFL Network‘s Ian Rapoport. The move comes as new Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks to fill key roles on his coaching staff.

Pleasant, 38, has been with the Rams since 2023, serving as defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator under head coach Sean McVay. Prior to rejoining the Rams, Pleasant worked with Johnson during their time with the Detroit Lions in 2021, where he held similar roles. He also spent part of the 2022 season as an offensive consultant for the Green Bay Packers.

With over a decade of NFL coaching experience, Pleasant began his career in 2012 as an assistant defensive backs coach at the University of Michigan. He later worked with the Cleveland Browns and Washington Football Team before his first stint with the Rams in 2017. Despite his extensive resume, Pleasant’s hiring would mark a departure from the high-profile defensive coordinator candidates many Bears fans anticipated.

Pleasant’s tenure with the Lions ended abruptly in 2022 when he was fired midseason. However, his rehabilitation under McVay in Los Angeles has restored his reputation as a rising coaching talent. “If Johnson likes Pleasant, then there’s no reason for Bears fans to object,” said Bryan Perez, a respected Bears analyst and founder of Bears Talk.

The Bears’ defensive coordinator search is a critical step in shaping Johnson’s vision for the team. Pleasant’s familiarity with Johnson’s coaching philosophy and his versatility in coaching both offense and defense could make him a strong fit for the role. The interview process is expected to begin soon as the Bears aim to finalize their coaching staff ahead of the 2024 season.