The NFL coaching carousel keeps spinning, and the latest move could have ripple effects beyond just the New York Jets. On Tuesday, the Jets parted ways with offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, a decision that comes just days after reports suggested he’d be stripped of play-calling duties but remain on staff. After what’s been described as “many” conversations, both sides agreed it was time to move on.
Now, Engstrand hits the open market, and one team that should be paying close attention is the Chicago Bears.
Why the Bears Make Sense for Engstrand
There’s a clear connection here: Engstrand and current Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson worked side by side in Detroit from 2020 to 2024. They essentially climbed the ladder together, each holding titles like offensive quality control coach, tight ends coach, and passing game coordinator before Johnson eventually took over as OC.
That shared history matters. In a league where continuity and familiarity often drive coaching hires, Engstrand could be a natural fit to reunite with Johnson in Chicago. Not as an offensive coordinator-those jobs are scarce right now-but in a key assistant role that allows him to stay in the mix and rebuild his reputation after a rough season with the Jets.
A Coaching Staff in Flux
The Bears are coming off a season that’s put them back on the radar, and with success comes attention-sometimes the kind that leads to staff turnover. Eric Bieniemy is already out, and tight ends coach Declan Doyle is drawing interest from multiple teams, including the Ravens, who are expected to interview him soon. That kind of movement opens doors, and Engstrand could walk right through one of them.
Even if no official title is immediately available, adding another offensive mind with experience and chemistry with Johnson only strengthens the Bears’ staff. And let’s be honest: keeping Engstrand away from a potential return to Detroit doesn’t hurt either.
A Tough Year in New York, But Not Without Merit
It’s easy to point to the Jets’ offensive rankings-29th in both total offense and scoring-and write off Engstrand’s year as a failure. But context matters.
He was working with a revolving door of quarterbacks, including Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, and Brady Cook. That’s a tough trio to build consistency with, especially behind a struggling offensive line.
Still, there were flashes. Engstrand drew up route concepts that created separation and opportunities-his play designs weren’t the problem.
The execution just wasn’t there. That kind of nuance gets lost in the box score, but coaches around the league notice it.
A Chance to Rebuild and Rebrand
For Engstrand, joining Johnson’s staff in Chicago isn’t just about familiarity-it’s about opportunity. This is a team on the rise, with a head coach and OC who’ve shown they can build something sustainable. It’s the kind of environment where a coach can reset, contribute meaningfully, and put himself in position for another shot at a coordinator role down the line.
And if Doyle does end up heading to Baltimore? That could open up a bigger role for Engstrand right away.
Bottom line: the Bears have a chance to add a smart, experienced coach who already speaks the same offensive language as their OC. Engstrand gets a soft landing after a tough year, and Chicago adds another piece to an offensive staff that’s starting to turn heads. It’s a move that just makes sense-for both sides.