The time has arrived for the Chicago Bears, although the team had a slim chance to secure a playoff spot, they were already facing long odds heading into Week 17. This season has been a challenging one for the Chicago Bears, plagued by numerous issues both on and off the field. As we reflect on the season that unfolded, there are three primary reasons that contributed to the Bears missing out on the playoffs.
3. Lack of Receiving depth on the roster.
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I have to ask, when looking at the Bears’ receiving corps, aside from D.J. Moore and Cole Kmet, can you name another consistently reliable receiver for Fields to target? It’s quite challenging because, truthfully, the Bears’ receiving core is quite subpar. While Darnell Mooney has shown flashes of potential, he hasn’t been a consistently fantastic asset to the team. In fact, he’s had more inconsistent moments than standout performances. Beyond him, the Bears’ receiving options have been disappointing overall. The Bears were never going to do much with how poor the wide receiver depth that this team had.
Regardless of who the QB will be in 2024, it’s evident that the Bears need to provide more viable targets for the passing game
2. Is Matt Eberflus really the head coach of the future for the Chicago Bears?
A significant factor contributing to the Bears’ struggles this season has been attributed to poor coaching, primarily under Matt Eberflus. While the team has shown resilience with their recent winning streak, doubts linger regarding his suitability for the head coaching role. Eberflus has made several questionable coaching decisions, including play calling, and there are concerns about his management of the locker room culture. The Chase Claypool Saga and subsequent resignations underscored this issue (which I’ll elaborate on shortly). Eberflus even described the team culture as ‘fantastic,’ a stark contrast to its evident issues, reminiscent of Bruce Allen’s infamous remarks about a ‘damn good’ culture in Washington during the Dan Snyder era.
However, I have reservations about Eberflus’s fit as coach. Despite his reputation as a defensive-minded guru, the team’s defense has performed poorly this season. While Eberflus seems secure in his job for now, next year will be critical for him. Unfortunately, the Bears found themselves immediately faced with a tough decision as…
1. Alan Williams Resignation from the Chicago Bears
Let’s delve into the moment that spelled doom for this team’s season. It was when the Bears’ defensive coordinator unexpectedly resigned from his role, leaving many in shock. Soon after, bizarre news surfaced regarding FBI raids conducted at both Halas Hall and his home, escalating this situation into a tremendous mess. Allegedly, according to the individual himself, he cited reasons of wanting to prioritize family time and attend to his health for his abrupt departure. Regardless of the true reason behind his resignation, the undeniable fact is that it occurred, causing significant upheaval and putting the team in an extremely challenging situation.
Following his departure, the defense faced a decline when Eberflus assumed control, exacerbating my concerns about his capabilities as head coach
Where the Chicago Bears go from here?
The Chicago Bears have secured the 1st Overall Pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, a result of the Bryce Young trade made by Carolina in the 2023 NFL Draft. This remarkable opportunity grants them consecutive years with the top draft selection. With their own 1st round pick in hand as well, the Bears have a chance to acquire two pivotal players to aid in their rebuilding process.
As Ryan Poles navigates this crucial offseason, numerous questions loom. Will Justin Fields continue as the Bears’ quarterback next season? Is there a plan to address the team’s offensive line concerns? Can they bolster their receiving corps to support their quarterback, whoever that might be? Additionally, what are the primary defensive priorities? Will Matt Eberflus retain his position as the head coach, and who will take charge as the new defensive coordinator for the Bears? These pressing inquiries will unfold and be answered in the coming months.
