Matt Eberflus replacements: 3 candidates Bears should consider for head coaching role

The Chicago Bears parted ways with Matt Eberflus on Friday after almost three seasons and a disappointing 10-24 record. Having Caleb Williams under center this season didn't help his case. The team released him after Thursday's loss to the Lions, where he failed to call a crucial timeout. This decision cost the Bears a chance to tie or extend the game.

With Eberflus out, the question that the front office must answer is who should take over head-coaching duties in the January hiring cycle.

Here are three candidates who could bring a spark to the Bears and help Caleb Williams develop into the star quarterback everybody expects him to be.

3 coaches who can replace Matt Eberflus as Bears HC

#1. Thomas Brown

This is the easy path the Bears will follow after dismissing Matt Eberflus. Thomas Brown was first named interim offensive coordinator, which brought hope to the Bears, as Caleb Williams played a little better under him.

If he takes over the entire operation, Brown could be able to transform Williams and make him a much better quarterback in Year 2. That could depend on how the team ends the season. Otherwise, two intriguing candidates could find their way to Chicago.

#2. Kliff Kingsbury

Kliff Kingsbury was considered a candidate to join the Bears as offensive coordinator last January, but Matt Eberflus opted against that. With him out of the picture, the path could be clear for Kingsbury to emulate what he's done with Jayden Daniels in Washington with Caleb Williams.

They have a prior relationship, as Kingsbury was a senior offensive analyst for USC in 2023.

#3. Ben Johnson

Ben Johnson showed his cards against the Chicago Bears, leading the Detroit Lions to a 16-0 halftime lead on Thursday. That lead could have been much larger, as the Lions missed several chances to score touchdowns. The Lions have shown a dynamic and effective offense this season and bringing that energy to Chicago could greatly benefit Caleb Williams.

It's unclear if Johnson is interested in leaving his position under Dan Campbell, but bringing him to Soldier Field would be a potentially franchise-altering move. Williams would thrive under this coach and put the Bears on the right track.

They have the personnel and talent to play great, but their playoff aspirations will remain dead without the right coaches.