Chicago Bears' HC candidates ranked feat. Mike McCarthy, Ron Rivera and more

The Chicago Bears turned in a disappointing 2024 NFL season, despite landing superstar rookie quarterback Caleb Williams in the draft. This resulted in them firing head coach Matt Eberflus.

Here are their top five options ranked for the HC role, based on their reported interest in the current candidates.

Bears HC candidates ranked for 2025 NFL offseason

Matt Eberflus

#5 - Thomas Brown

Thomas Brown would be a logical choice for the Chicago Bears after twice being promoted within their organization during the 2024 NFL season. He was first promoted to be their offensive coordinator and then took over as the interim head coach after Matt Eberflus was fired. The franchise clearly thinks highly of him, so the next step could be as their full-time head coach.

#4 - Ron Rivera

Ron Rivera has extensive head coaching experience with the Carolina Panthers and the Washington Commanders. He is reportedly looking for another position after not having one this season, and the Bears have shown interest by interviewing him. He may not have a lot of upside, but he is one of the most solid options out there.

#3 - Kliff Kingsbury

Kliff Kingsbury had mixed results as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals before joining the USC Trojans as their senior offensive analyst. He worked with Caleb Williams there, so their connection could play a role in his potential hiring.

He also helps his case by having a strong season as the offensive coordinator of the Commanders with another rookie quarterback in Jayden Daniels.

#2 - Mike McCarthy

Mike McCarthy is one of the most accomplished head coaching candidates available this year after being let go by the Dallas Cowboys. He previously won a Super Bowl ring with the Green Bay Packers and has demonstrated a consistent ability to coach teams to the playoffs. This could be an attractive quality to a struggling franchise like the Bears.

#1 - Ben Johnson

Ben Johnson is the ideal candidate for the Bears, who should be seeking a brilliant offensive mind to pair with Caleb Williams for many years to come. Johnson has been dominant in his offensive coordinator position with the Detroit Lions and is one of the most coveted candidates of this head coaching cycle. He may be their best option to get the most out of their young quarterback.