Bears engaged in talks over potential replacement for Steelers coach Mike Tomlin: report
The The Chicago Bears waived Matt Eberflus of his head coaching duties in November, just one day after receiving significant blame for poor clock management in a 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions.
Eberflus’ nearly three-year tenure in the Windy City was marred by a last-second losing streak that ended with a six-game losing streak. Thomas Brown became the interim head coach.
The Bears are now searching for the franchise’s next head coach and have already interviewed several candidates, sticking to general manager Ryan Poles’ previous promise to cast a wide net during the search.
But according to a new report from ESPN , one of the ways the team explored filling the head coaching vacancy involved shopping the Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin through trade.
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Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin watches from the sideline during the first half against the Houston Texans on Oct. 1, 2023, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
According to a report, the Bears recently contacted the Steelers to inquire about potentially getting permission to talk and possibly execute a trade for the Super Bowl-winning coach. The Steelers declined the request, sources told ESPN.
The talks are not believed to have reached Tomlin, who recently responded to questions about potential trade offers from other teams with a simple message: “Save your time.” Tomlin’s contract reportedly includes a no-trade clause.
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The Steelers finished the regular season 10-7, which maintained Tomlin’s streak of never having a record below .500. However, the team ended the season on a four-game losing streak.
Pittsburgh was then eliminated from the playoffs by Baltimore Ravens in the replacement circle. It’s been eight years since the Steelers won a playoff game.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during the first half of a wild-card playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 11, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is believed to be one of the most sought-after candidates in this recruiting cycle. Earlier this week, the Bears announced that they interviewed Johnson.
They also interviewed Arthur Smith, Brian Flores, Mike McCarthyformer Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and several others.
A Chicago Bears helmet during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., on Aug. 22, 2024. (Denny Medley/USA Today Sports)
Despite finishing the season 5-12, Chicago’s roster has talent at key positions. The next Bears head coach will be in charge of quarterback development Caleb Williamstop pick in the 2024 NFL Draft The coaching staff will also have the opportunity to work with wide receivers Romeo Odunze and DJ Moore.
On the other hand, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds is a two-time Pro Bowler, and Jaylon Johnson is a talented cornerback.
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While the New England Patriots filled the head coaching vacancy on short notice with a hire Mike VrabelThe Bears, Jets, Saints, Jaguars and Raiders continue their pursuits.
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