The Chicago Bears, a franchise with a cherished history, is eyeing a potential new chapter as they look towards bolstering their coaching dynamics. The latest buzz in the Windy City circles around Matt Campbell, the celebrated head coach of Iowa State, who is under consideration to fill the Bears' coaching void.
The Matt Campbell Era at Iowa State
Since taking the helm in 2016, Campbell has orchestrated a remarkable transformation at Iowa State, cementing his place as the university's most successful coach. With a pride-worthy record of 62-50, Campbell has fostered a winning culture, evident from his 55.4% winning percentage. The hallmark of his regime has been consistency, highlighted by five consecutive winning seasons.
Campbell's tenure at Iowa State reached a historic pinnacle in 2024, a season that saw the Cyclones not only achieving their first-ever 10-win campaign but also clinching a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game for the second time in six years. This string of accomplishments underscores Campbell's strategic acumen and leadership prowess, crucial attributes for any NFL team in perennial search of success.
A Tempting Prospect for the Bears
As the Bears seek to revitalize their program, Campbell's recent track record makes him a compelling candidate. Not only has he achieved success on the field, but his commitment to Iowa State, solidified through an eight-year extension signed in December 2024, suggests a coach dedicated to building a program from the ground up—a trait that resonates well with the Bear's rebuilding mindset.
The Bears' decision to part ways with Matt Eberflus comes after a stretch marked by formidable challenges. Eberflus, who amassed a 14-32 record during his time, leaves behind a team that concluded the 2023 season at 7-10 before slipping to 4-8 during the current 2024 campaign. The decision for change comes amidst a roster that still managed to exhibit flashes of potential, as seen in their season-ending victory over the Green Bay Packers.
Interim Leadership Steps In
As of now, Thomas Brown has assumed the role of interim head coach. Previously the Bears' pass game coordinator, Brown's ascension offers him the opportunity to steady the ship while the search for a permanent successor continues. The franchise faces the challenge of not only seeking a skilled tactician but also finding a unifying figure capable of cultivating a winning ethos.
A Fresh Start
Looking towards the future, the Bears hold the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a valuable opportunity to reinforce their roster. This draft position, combined with potential fresh leadership under a coach like Campbell, could expedite the Bears' rebuilding process. The prospect of aligning young talent with experienced leadership may provide the necessary spark to propel the team back into playoff contention.
As Chicago weighs its options, the draw of Matt Campbell remains evident. His proven track record, ability to galvanize a squad, and commitment to long-term growth present an enticing proposition for a historic franchise in need of rejuvenation. Whether Campbell ultimately becomes the next luminary to guide the Bears is yet to be seen, but the possibility certainly has the league talking and fans buzzing with anticipation.