As the Chicago Bears navigate a challenging season, they have turned their attention toward bolstering their coaching staff with a potential new hire. The Bears, who recently parted ways with Matt Eberflus after a disappointing 4-8 start to the 2024 campaign, are reportedly considering Iowa State's esteemed coach, Matt Campbell, to fill their coaching vacancy.
Matt Campbell's Steady Rise
Matt Campbell has been a transformative figure at Iowa State since his tenure began in 2016. Over the years, Campbell has cemented his legacy as the most successful coach in the university’s history. With a commendable 62-50 record, Campbell has not only brought consistent success to Ames but has also achieved milestones previously unattained by the program.
Campbell's influence is most evident in Iowa State's impressive track record of five consecutive winning seasons. The pinnacle of this success came in 2024, when the Cyclones experienced their first-ever 10-win season, underscoring the significant strides made under his leadership. This achievement was complemented by Iowa State's appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game—its second in six years—further solidifying Campbell’s prowess in collegiate football.
Despite the temptations of larger programs with more resources, Campbell demonstrated his commitment to Iowa State by signing an eight-year extension in December, ensuring his stay with the Cyclones through 2032. This move reflects both his loyalty to the program and his strategic vision for its future.
The Bears' Turbulent Season
For the Chicago Bears, the 2024 season has been a tale of unmet expectations. Following a 7-10 record last season, hopes were high for improvement. However, a series of underwhelming performances led to Matt Eberflus's departure as head coach, leaving the team with a 14-32 record during his tenure.
In response, the Bears appointed Thomas Brown as the interim head coach. Originally serving as the pass game coordinator, Brown has stepped into a challenging role with the hopes of rejuvenating the team's spirit and performance. Under Brown’s interim leadership, the Bears concluded the season on a high note, securing a victory over their storied rivals, the Green Bay Packers. This win offered a glimmer of hope and provided a foundation upon which future success could be built.
Looking Toward the Future
As the Bears ponder their next steps, the addition of Matt Campbell could be precisely the change needed to steer the franchise toward a brighter future. Campbell's strong track record of developing talent and fostering winning cultures aligns with the Bears' aspirations to become consistent contenders in the NFL once again.
The Bears' current trajectory, paired with the coveted No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, provides an opportunity for renewed momentum, should they succeed in acquiring the right leadership and talent to capitalize on it. Campbell’s potential arrival could signal a strategic shift, emphasizing stability and growth.
While discussions and considerations continue behind closed doors at the Bears’ headquarters, the possibility of Matt Campbell bringing his coaching acumen to Chicago offers a promising outlook for a team eager to rise from the ranks of mere mediocrity to genuine playoff contenders.
The coming months will therefore be crucial for the Bears as they aim to align their plans with the aspirations of their dedicated fan base and execute a turnaround worthy of the team's storied past.