The Chicago Bears have made the decision to fire offensive coordinator Shane Waldron just nine games into his first season, following a disappointing stretch that includes three consecutive losses. The announcement came on Tuesday after the team’s performance against the New England Patriots, where they scored a mere three points and faced significant criticism from frustrated fans.
Waldron’s departure comes as the Bears’ offense ranks 30th in the NFL, averaging only 278 yards per game. The struggles have been exacerbated by injuries to the offensive line, leaving rookie quarterback Caleb Williams under constant pressure, as evidenced by him being sacked 18 times over the last three games. This has raised concerns about properly developing Williams, who is seen as a key player for the team’s future.
The move to fire Waldron marks a significant organizational shift, as it has been over five decades since the Bears last made such a change in the middle of a season. In response to Waldron’s exit, Thomas Brown, the passing game coordinator, has been promoted to serve as the team’s new offensive coordinator for the remainder of the season. Brown, who has prior experience in a similar role with the Carolina Panthers, also brings championship experience from his time with the Los Angeles Rams.
As head coach Matt Eberflus prepares to discuss the changes, all eyes will be on how the Bears approach their upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers. The organization faces substantial questions about its overall strategy and the development of its young quarterback.
Overall, this decision may inject new life into the Bears’ offense, providing an opportunity for fresh strategies to be implemented. With the right leadership and support, there is hope that the team can turn its season around and set a solid foundation for the future.