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Courtney Cronin, ESPN Staff Writer
CHICAGO – Shane Waldron has been fired as the Chicago Bears’ offensive coordinator less than 10 months after being hired for the position.
The Bears announced the firing Tuesday, a day after head coach Matt Eberflus promised “changes” and “adjustments” in response to the struggling team. Passing game coordinator Thomas Brown has been promoted to offensive coordinator.
“After thoroughly evaluating our entire operation,” Eberflus said in a statement released by the team, “I determined that it’s in the best interest of our team to pursue a different direction with leadership on offense. This decision was carefully considered and made with respect. I would like to thank Shane for his contributions and wish him well in the future.”
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This marks the first mid-season offensive coordinator change for the Bears since Perry Moss became Chicago’s first designated offensive coordinator in 1970.
Waldron faced intense scrutiny in Chicago due to the overall performance of the offense and the recent struggles of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
The Bears (4-5) have lost three consecutive games, scoring only 27 points total during that stretch. They are averaging a paltry 277.6 yards per game this season, ranking third lowest in the NFL.
Waldron, 45, was hired by the Bears on January 23 after spending three seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. He replaced Luke Getsy, who was fired after two seasons in Chicago but subsequently became the offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders before being fired earlier this month.
During last winter’s hiring process, Eberflus stated that the Bears were seeking a “great teacher” to lead their offensive staff, likely anticipating using the first overall draft pick on a quarterback.
Despite overhauling most of their offensive coaching staff and dedicating high draft capital and free agent resources to improve their offensive talent—including selecting Williams with the first overall pick—the Bears have struggled to find consistent success.
Brown is one season removed from serving as the offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers, coinciding with 2023 first overall pick Bryce Young’s rookie season. Brown spent three seasons with the Los Angeles Rams coaching running backs and tight ends and also served as the team’s assistant head coach from 2021-22.
Brown also possesses playcalling experience at the collegiate level, serving as the offensive coordinator and running backs coach for Miami from 2016-18.
“Thomas is a talented offensive mind with experience calling plays in a collaborative manner. I look forward to his leadership over our offensive coaching staff and his plan for our players,” Eberflus said.
# Bears Fire Offensive Coordinator Shane Waldron After Struggles, Promote Thomas Brown
The Chicago Bears have made a significant change to their coaching staff, parting ways with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron after a disappointing start to the season. In his place, the team has promoted quarterbacks coach Thomas Brown to the role of offensive coordinator.
This move comes as no surprise given the struggles the Bears offense has faced in recent weeks. The unit has consistently ranked among the bottom of the league in various statistical categories, including total yards, passing yards, and points scored.
### Examining Waldron’s Tenure
Waldron was hired by the Bears prior to the 2023 season after spending several years as a successful assistant coach with the Seattle Seahawks. However, his time in Chicago has not lived up to expectations.
* **Lack of Offensive Identity:** Critics have pointed to a lack of clear offensive identity under Waldron’s leadership. The offense seemed disjointed and struggled to find consistency week-to-week.
* **Difficulty Adapting:** The Bears offense failed to adapt to different defensive schemes, often appearing predictable and easily contained by opposing defenses.
* **Struggles with Justin Fields:** While quarterback Justin Fields has shown moments of promise, the offense hasn’t fully maximized his talents. Critics argue that Waldron’s playcalling failed to utilize Fields’ mobility effectively.
### Thomas Brown: A Fresh Start for the Bears Offense?
Brown, a former running back who has risen through the coaching ranks, brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the offensive coordinator position.
* **Previous Success:** Brown has a proven track record of success, having played a key role in developing young quarterbacks during his time with the Miami Dolphins and other NFL teams.
* **Strong Leadership Qualities:** Brown is known for his strong work ethic, leadership qualities, and ability to connect with players. His players consistently speak highly of his coaching style and mentorship.
### What to Expect from the Bears Offense Moving Forward
The promotion of Thomas Brown signifies a major shift in direction for the Chicago Bears offense. It remains to be seen how this change will translate into on-field results, but there are reasons to be optimistic.
* **Emphasis on Run Game:** Brown’s coaching philosophy emphasizes a strong run game, which could complement Justin Fields’ skillset and create more space for the passing attack.
* **Increased Playcalling Flexibility:** Brown is expected to bring a more diverse and creative playcalling approach, challenging opposing defenses and keeping them off balance.
### Challenges Remain for Brown and the Bears Offence
While the change in leadership offers hope for improvement, Brown faces several challenges:
* **Building Chemistry:** The Bears offense needs time to adjust to Brown’s new system and develop chemistry among players.
* **Consistently Executing:** The Bears have struggled with consistency throughout the season. Brown must instill a culture of accountability and discipline to ensure consistent performance.
### Looking Ahead
The Chicago Bears are hoping that this change in offensive leadership will spark a turnaround for their struggling unit. With Thomas Brown at the helm, the team will look to establish a more cohesive offensive identity, maximize Justin Fields’ potential, and compete for victories in the second half of the season.
