Developments around another NFL coordinator opening appear to have worked in the Chicago Bears’ favor, limiting further turnover on Ben Johnson’s coaching staff.
Tennessee has reportedly filled its defensive coordinator vacancy by hiring veteran coach Gus Bradley, according to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. The move comes after Bears defensive backs coach Al Harris had interviewed for the position on Jan. 24 under newly hired Titans head coach Robert Saleh.
With Bradley landing the role, Chicago avoids losing another assistant. Up to this point, only Declan Doyle and Eric Bieniemy have departed Johnson’s staff, easing concerns about additional defections.
Signs had already suggested Harris was not the frontrunner. As reported by The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Harris did interview for the job, but Saleh proceeded with filling multiple defensive assistant positions before naming a coordinator. Tennessee hired Tony Oden as cornerbacks coach and Aaron Whitecotton to oversee the defensive line.
In addition to Harris and Bradley, the Titans reportedly interviewed Falcons defensive passing game coordinator Mike Rutenberg and Texans defensive backs coach Dino Vasso for the coordinator role, per NFL.com.
Ultimately, Bradley’s extensive résumé likely set him apart. He brings more than a decade of experience as a defensive coordinator, along with four seasons as head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. He also has an established relationship with Saleh, having served as the San Francisco 49ers’ assistant head coach last season while Saleh ran the defense.
Bears Offensive Coordinator Outlook
Meanwhile, the Bears’ search for a replacement for offensive coordinator Declan Doyle remains unclear. Early speculation connecting Tanner Engstrand to Chicago proved inaccurate, as the former Jets offensive coordinator instead accepted a job as Miami’s passing game coordinator. The rumors stemmed from Engstrand’s previous work with Johnson during their time together in Detroit.
Chicago does have internal options if the team opts for a promotion. Possible candidates include passing game coordinator Press Taylor, quarterbacks coach J.T. Barrett, and wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El.
The Bears are also adding Will Lawing to the staff as an assistant, according to Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien. Lawing previously served as Boston College’s offensive coordinator and most recently coached tight ends for the Houston Texans. His exact role in Chicago has not been disclosed. Lawing and Johnson share a long-standing relationship dating back to their playing days at North Carolina.
Another opening remains at running backs coach following Eric Bieniemy’s departure. Chicago Tribune reporter Brad Biggs has identified Eric Studesville and Duce Staley as potential candidates.
Staley coached Cleveland’s running backs last season but is currently available after the Browns’ coaching change. Studesville has a lengthy coaching background, including early stints with the Bears under Dave Wannstedt and Dick Jauron. Since 2001, he has coached running backs for several teams, including the Dolphins, Giants, Bills, and Broncos, and previously worked with Johnson during their time in Miami.
