
Fri Jan 30 21:10:00 UTC 2026: # Bears Coaching Staff Stability a Positive Sign After Breakout Season
The Story
Following a surprising and successful 2025 season, the Chicago Bears are working to maintain stability within their coaching staff. Despite significant interest in several assistant coaches, particularly offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and defensive backs coach/pass game coordinator Al Harris, it appears head coach Ben Johnson will retain their services for the 2026 season. This comes after running backs coach Eric Bieniemy accepted the offensive coordinator position with the Kansas City Chiefs, leaving a vacancy to fill.
Key Points
- The Chicago Bears had an impressive 2025 season, going 11-6, winning the NFC North, and securing a wild-card playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers.
- Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, defensive backs coach/pass game coordinator Al Harris, and running backs coach Eric Bieniemy all attracted interest from other teams.
- Eric Bieniemy is departing to become the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Declan Doyle interviewed for the offensive coordinator position with the Philadelphia Eagles and received interest from the Baltimore Ravens.
- Al Harris interviewed for defensive coordinator roles with the Packers, Washington Commanders, and was linked to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive coordinator job.
- Expectations are that both Declan Doyle and Al Harris will return to the Bears coaching staff for the 2026 season.
Critical Analysis
The flurry of coaching staff interest, particularly after a “worst to first” turnaround season, is predictable. The Bears’ success has elevated the profiles of their assistant coaches. The ability to retain Doyle and Harris signals positive internal dynamics and potentially competitive compensation from the Bears organization.
Key Takeaways
- The Bears’ successful 2025 season made their coaching staff a hot commodity.
- Retaining key assistant coaches Declan Doyle and Al Harris is a win for the Bears organization.
- The departure of Eric Bieniemy represents a loss, but the team appears prepared to address the vacancy.
- Maintaining coaching staff stability is crucial for building sustained success.