The Chicago Bears have fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron just nine games into his role, following a series of underwhelming offensive performances led by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. In response, the Bears are promoting Thomas Brown, the passing game coordinator, to take over as offensive coordinator and play-caller, aiming to boost Williams’ development and revitalize an offense currently ranking 30th in the NFL.
The decision comes on the heels of a discouraging 19-3 home loss to the New England Patriots, where the Bears’ offense managed only 142 yards and extended their touchdown drought to eight quarters. Coach Matt Eberflus hinted at potential changes in his Monday press conference but officially announced Waldron’s departure on Tuesday. Eberflus expressed that the decision was made carefully and with the team’s best interests in mind.
Brown, who joined the Bears in the offseason from the Carolina Panthers, has a history of play-calling experience. He previously worked under Sean McVay with the Los Angeles Rams and also served as an offensive coordinator at the University of Miami. Eberflus praised Brown’s collaborative style and offensive acumen and anticipates his leadership will bring a fresh approach to the struggling Bears offense.
The Bears initially hired Waldron for his experience with the Seattle Seahawks and his reputation for adaptability and innovation. However, the offense’s production fell below last year’s, with issues in total offense, passing, third-down efficiency, and protecting Williams, who has been sacked 18 times in the past three games.
Williams, whose performance has dropped off after a promising start, faced relentless pressure in the recent loss to the Patriots, being sacked nine times. With Brown now at the helm, the Bears hope to stabilize the offense and get Williams back on track. The quarterback expressed confidence in adapting to a new play-caller midseason, acknowledging the necessity to follow Eberflus’s decision.
Waldron’s tenure was marred by criticism over play-calling decisions, including two high-profile red zone calls that sparked internal and public debate. Waldron’s inability to maximize the potential of offensive talents like wide receivers DJ Moore and Cole Kmet contributed to the Bears’ decision to make a change.
The Bears’ upcoming schedule includes challenging matchups against divisional rivals and other top teams, setting a crucial test for Brown and a pivotal period for Eberflus as he seeks to retain his position. The team will resume practice Wednesday under Brown’s leadership, with hopes of a turnaround as they face the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.
