the Chicago Bears relieve Matt Eberflus of his head coaching assignments in November, just one day after he received major blame for poor clock management in a 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions.
Eberflus' nearly three-year tenure in the Windy City was marred by a string of last-second losses and ended with a six-game losing streak. Thomas Brown became interim head coach.
The Bears are now searching for the franchise's next head coach and have already interviewed several candidates, in keeping with general manager Ryan Poles' previous pledge to cast a wide net during the search.
But according to a new report from ESPN, one way the team explored filling the head coaching vacancy was to acquire the Steelers' head coach. Mike Tomlin via trade.
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Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin watches from the sideline during the first half against the Houston Texans on October 1, 2023 in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
The Bears recently contacted the Steelers to inquire about the possibility of obtaining permission to talk and possibly execute a trade for the Super Bowl-winning coach, according to the report. The Steelers declined the request, sources told ESPN.
Talks are not believed to have reached Tomlin, who recently responded to questions about potential trade offers from other teams with a simple message: “Save your time.” Tomlin's contract reportedly includes a no-trade clause.
Steelers George Pickens makes startling remark after playoff loss vs. Crows
The Steelers finished the regular season with a 10-7 record, maintaining Tomlin's distinction of never posting a record below .500. However, the team ended its season with four straight defeats.
Then Pittsburgh was eliminated from the playoffs by Baltimore Ravens In the wild card round. It has now been eight years since the Steelers have won a playoff game.
Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin during the first half of a wild card playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens on January 11, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is believed to be one of the most sought-after candidates this recruiting cycle. Earlier this week, the Bears announced that they… I interviewed Johnson.
They also interviewed Arthur Smith, Brian Flores, Mike McCarthyformer Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll and many others.
A Chicago Bears helmet during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Stadium at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, August 22, 2024. (Denny Medley/USA Today Sports)
Despite finishing the season with a 5-12 record, Chicago's roster has talent at key positions. The Bears' next head coach will be tasked with developing the quarterback Caleb Williamsthe top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The coaching staff will also have the opportunity to work with wide receivers Rome Odunze and DJ Moore.
Elsewhere, linebacker Tremaine Edmonds is a two-time Pro Bowler, and Jaylon Johnson is a talented cornerback.
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While the New England Patriots filled the head coaching vacancy in short order via recruiting Mike Vrabelthe Bears, Jets, Saints, Jaguars and Raiders continue their search.
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