Chicago Bears Consider Former Player as Potential Defensive Coordinator…

The Chicago Bears are reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing in a familiar face to fill the vacant defensive coordinator position.

Amidst discussions about the offensive coordinator situation, the team has not forgotten the need for a new defensive coordinator since Alan Williams stepped down in September, leading head coach Matt Eberflus to take on playcalling duties.

While Eberflus is expected to continue in this role, he requires assistance in organizing and preparing the defense each week.

After weeks of silence on potential candidates, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network has revealed that the Bears are planning to interview Chris Harris, currently the passing game coordinator for the Tennessee Titans.

Harris, originally drafted by the Bears in 2005, quickly became a starting safety and contributed to the team’s Super Bowl appearance in his rookie year. After a stint in Carolina, he returned to Chicago in 2010, earning second-team All-Pro honors with five interceptions.

Following his playing career, Harris joined the Bears’ coaching staff in 2013 as a defensive quality control coach and gradually climbed the coaching ranks. In 2020, he became the defensive backs coach for the Washington Commanders, achieving a top-five pass defense in two of his three seasons there.

The Bears’ interest in Harris is evident, given his background in the Tampa-2 defensive system under Lovie Smith and his coaching experience in a variation of it under Ron Rivera in Washington. His familiarity with the scheme and its responsibilities makes him an ideal candidate for Eberflus.

While it is uncertain whether Harris would assume playcalling duties, his immediate impact on the coaching staff is expected to be substantial, potentially surpassing the contributions of his predecessor, Williams. Additionally, Harris could prove to be a significant asset for the Bears’ young and talented secondary.

The opportunity to become the defensive coordinator for the Bears is likely exciting for Harris. While he may not be calling plays, this would be his first time holding the position, and doing so for the team that initially drafted him adds an extra layer of significance.

Although the Bears may consider other candidates, there is a strong impression that Harris is the leading contender for the role.