Mike Greenberg and Domonique Foxworth have voiced their concerns regarding the Chicago Bears’ management of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams following the team’s decision to dismiss offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. This move came after a disappointing performance against the New England Patriots, where the Bears lost 19-3, leaving doubts about the effectiveness of their offensive strategy.
The Bears’ coaching decision appears to stem from a lack of cohesion and progress in the offense, particularly in regards to Williams, the team’s first overall draft pick. Waldron had been tasked with maximizing Williams’ potential—an approach that previously yielded success with Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith. However, despite some flashes of brilliance, Williams has struggled, leading to his regression in performance.
In light of Waldron’s departure, Thomas Brown has been promoted from passing game coordinator to offensive coordinator. Brown’s prior experience with the Carolina Panthers, especially during quarterback Bryce Young’s rookie season, made him a strong candidate. Unfortunately, the Bears opted not to select offensive coordinators like Kliff Kingsbury, who has since joined the Washington Commanders, or several others who have found success in the league.
Since the coaching changes, the Bears’ offense has been underperforming, ranking last in several key areas, including points per game and total touchdowns during their current three-game losing streak. Caleb Williams’ statistics are concerning, showing he ranks among the lowest in various categories, including completion percentage and total QBR.
The challenge now falls to Brown, who needs to revitalize the offense, particularly in harnessing the talents of players like tight end Cole Kmet and wide receiver DJ Moore, both of whom have underperformed recently.
Moving forward, there is hope for Bears fans as Eberflus emphasizes the need for improvement. His dialogue with Williams indicates a commitment to restoring the quarterback’s confidence and unlocking the team’s offensive capabilities. With a challenging schedule ahead, including critical division games, the Bears will need to find their rhythm quickly to salvage their season.
This situation serves as a reminder that developing a rookie quarterback takes time and the right support system. The Bears have the opportunity to turn things around and start utilizing their offensive talent effectively. The shift in coaching could potentially bring a fresh perspective that may lead to elevated performances in the remainder of the season.