The Chicago Bears have faced significant challenges with their offense throughout the season, particularly highlighted during Week 10 when the team managed to score a mere three points in an upset loss to the New England Patriots. This disappointing performance not only marked a stark decline for the Bears, dropping them below .500 for the first time since Week 3, but it also had a considerable impact on their playoff aspirations.

In response to the struggles, the coaching staff underwent its first significant change this Tuesday as the Bears opted to part ways with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, who had been with the team for less than a year. The Bears have promoted passing game coordinator Thomas Brown to fill the vacant position, providing him with an eight-game evaluation period. However, there remains the possibility that the organization may seek an external candidate post-season. Given the Bears' prior decisions at the offensive coordinator position, particularly with Waldron and his predecessor Luke Getsy, it is imperative that the team secures a successful hire. The urgency for a strong decision is heightened following the investment in quarterback Caleb Williams, selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the recent draft.

Although Williams has not struggled to the same extent as 2023's No. 1 pick, Bryce Young, his performance has been concerning, with a completion rate of just 60.5 percent, tallying 1,785 passing yards along with nine touchdowns and five interceptions across his initial nine games. A prudent hiring of an offensive coordinator could offer the Bears greater flexibility in evaluating the future of head coach Matt Eberflus, who has recorded a 14-29 record since joining the organization in 2022. Should the Bears find the right offensive coordinator, they may broaden their search for head coaching candidates to include individuals with defensive expertise, rather than being limited strictly to offensive specialists capable of maximizing Williams' potential.

With a wealth of promising candidates likely to be available this offseason, the Bears stand in a favorable position to select their next offensive coordinator. One candidate gaining traction is Jerrod Johnson, who has transitioned from playing in the Your Call Football league to being a noteworthy figure in the coaching landscape. Johnson currently serves as the quarterbacks coach for the Houston Texans, a role he secured after gaining valuable experience working with the Indianapolis Colts and the Minnesota Vikings. He played a crucial part in C.J. Stroud's development into a franchise quarterback, helping the No. 2 overall pick win Rookie of the Year and secure a playoff victory. Johnson received offensive coordinator interviews with both the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers last year but chose to remain in Houston for the 2024 season. If the Bears were to hire Johnson, it could greatly benefit Williams' progression and enhance his standing as a potential head coaching candidate in the future.

Another name to consider is Chandler Whitmer, who has garnered attention as a viable offensive coordinator option. He has spent time with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he significantly contributed to Justin Herbert's development as a premier quarterback and was instrumental in boosting the Chargers' offensive ranks. Following his tenure with the Chargers, Whitmer has recently taken on a role as the pass game specialist for the Atlanta Falcons, where he has been part of an offense experiencing immense growth. Under his influence, the Falcons have significantly improved their passing game metrics in comparison to the previous season, making him an appealing candidate for the Bears as they seek to enhance their passing attack.

Nate Scheelhaase, a former standout quarterback for the Illinois Fighting Illini, has also emerged as a promising coaching prospect. With a successful coaching career that has included multiple roles at his alma mater and currently as an offensive assistant for the Los Angeles Rams, Scheelhaase has demonstrated his ability to elevate the performance of offensive units. Under his leadership, the Rams offense ranks favorably in passing yards per game, showcasing his effectiveness despite challenging circumstances with injuries to key players. Hiring Scheelhaase could provide the Bears with fresh ideas and innovative strategies to help Williams thrive.

Finally, there is the consideration of Lincoln Riley, an esteemed former college coach known for his offensive prowess. Riley achieved considerable success at Oklahoma before transferring to USC, where he initially had high hopes for continued success. However, following several disappointing seasons at USC and potential program turmoil, he may find himself seeking opportunities in the NFL. A reunification between Riley and Williams would not only benefit the player but also rejuvenate Riley's coaching resume. Given Riley's extensive track record of developing top-tier quarterbacks and orchestrating potent offenses, the Bears could see transformative effects with such a hiring.