Bears Keep Declan Doyle, But Coaching Carousel Keeps Spinning-Antwaan Randle El Emerging as a Hot Name
The Chicago Bears are learning firsthand that success comes at a cost-and this offseason, that cost is continuity on the coaching staff.
After clinching their first division title since 2018, the Bears have already seen key staffers draw interest across the league. Running backs coach Eric Bieniemy is on his way back to Kansas City, this time as the Chiefs' offensive coordinator. And it looked like offensive coordinator Declan Doyle might follow him out the door-until he didn’t.
Doyle, who had been in the mix for the Philadelphia Eagles’ OC job, has reportedly decided to stay put in Chicago. That’s no small win for the Bears, who are trying to build on a breakout year and maintain some stability around a young, developing offense. But in the NFL, one door closing usually means another one opens-and in this case, it might be opening for wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El.
Randle El on the Rise
Randle El’s name is quickly gaining traction in coaching circles, and it’s not hard to see why. After joining Ben Johnson’s staff last year, he made an immediate impact in Chicago, helping guide the development of young wideouts like Luther Burden, Rome Odunze, and Jahdae Walker. Sure, the Bears had their share of drops, but Randle El’s influence on the receiver room was clear-he brought energy, teaching chops, and a track record of connecting with players.
Now, with Doyle staying in Chicago, Randle El could be a candidate for a promotion elsewhere. And with 10 new head coaches set to take over around the league in 2026, there’s no shortage of opportunities for a 46-year-old coach with a growing résumé.
Potential Landing Spots
The most obvious connection was a potential return to Detroit, where Randle El previously worked under Johnson. But that door appears closed now that the Lions have hired Drew Petzing as their offensive coordinator. Still, there are plenty of intriguing options on the table.
The Baltimore Ravens’ OC job might be the most coveted opening in the league, thanks to the presence of Lamar Jackson. That’s a quarterback any offensive mind would love to work with.
But don’t rule out a reunion with the franchise where Randle El made his name as a player-the Pittsburgh Steelers. With Mike McCarthy assembling a new staff there, Randle El could be a natural fit.
Other teams with open coordinator roles include the Tennessee Titans and the New York Giants, both of whom are looking to reset their offenses. Whether Randle El gets a look for a coordinator job or another elevated role, his name is firmly in the mix.
Experience That Matters
Randle El has been around some of the best minds in football. He cut his teeth under Bruce Arians in Tampa Bay and worked alongside Ben Johnson as the Lions’ offense evolved into one of the league’s most creative units. That kind of experience matters-especially for teams trying to build something sustainable.
So while the Bears get to keep their OC in Declan Doyle, they may not be done reshuffling the deck just yet. If Randle El gets the call, Chicago could find itself filling a different coaching vacancy than expected.
In a league that moves fast, the Bears are holding on where they can-but the coaching carousel isn’t slowing down anytime soon.