The Chicago Bears’ season may have ended in playoff heartbreak, but the real action is just getting started - and it’s happening on the sidelines. As the NFL coaching carousel spins into high gear, several key members of Chicago’s staff are drawing serious interest from around the league. And if the early signs are any indication, the Bears could be looking at a significant shakeup before next season even kicks off.
Let’s start with the biggest headline: running backs coach Eric Bieniemy is headed back to familiar territory, taking over as the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs. It’s a notable move for Bieniemy, who spent years helping shape that high-powered offense before a stint in Chicago. Now, he returns to a system he knows well - and leaves a vacancy the Bears will need to fill quickly.
Meanwhile, offensive coordinator Declan Doyle is getting some attention of his own. He just completed his first interview of the offseason, speaking with the Philadelphia Eagles about their open OC position. It’s a sign that Doyle’s work in Chicago hasn’t gone unnoticed, and with the Eagles looking to retool their offense, he could be a strong candidate to make the leap.
But the hottest name on the Bears' staff right now? That’s Al Harris.
The defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator has been one of the most sought-after assistants this cycle, already interviewing for defensive coordinator roles with the Green Bay Packers and Washington Commanders. Now, according to league sources, Harris is set to interview with the Tennessee Titans for their vacant DC position - his third such interview this offseason.
And it’s not hard to see why.
Harris made a major impact in just one season with the Bears. Despite losing top corners Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon for much of the year, he managed to keep the secondary not just afloat, but thriving.
Under his guidance, Nahshon Wright led the entire league in turnovers created, while veteran safety Kevin Byard turned in an All-Pro campaign, highlighted by a league-best seven interceptions. That kind of production, especially under adversity, speaks volumes about Harris’ coaching ability.
Now he’s firmly on the radar of new Titans head coach Robert Saleh, who’s just beginning to assemble his staff after taking the job fresh off his run as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator. With Saleh known for his defensive acumen, it’s telling that Harris is among the first names being considered to lead Tennessee’s defense.
For the Bears, the writing may be on the wall. Harris has quickly become one of the hottest commodities in the coaching ranks, and with three DC interviews already under his belt, it would be more surprising at this point if he didn’t land a coordinator gig somewhere.
Still, Bears head coach Ben Johnson isn’t sweating the attention his staff is getting. In fact, he sees it as a testament to the program he’s building in Chicago.
Multiple assistants drawing interest from across the league? That’s a sign of success - and Johnson is embracing it, even as it means he may have to do some hiring of his own in the coming weeks.
The Bears’ offseason is barely underway, but it’s already clear: the coaching shuffle could be just as pivotal as any free agency move or draft pick. And with names like Bieniemy, Doyle, and Harris all in play, Chicago’s sideline could have a very different look when the 2026 season kicks off.