ESPN provides update on Kevin Warren’s plans for next head coach

Kevin Warren took over as team president of the Chicago Bears after head coach Matt Eberflus had already been hired. He had no say in this decision, which is why many believe he would jump at the chance to make a change if things weren’t going well. However, he signed off on the decision to keep Eberflus for another season last year, citing a desire for continuity. Further reports indicate that Warren wanted to fire the head coach but gave in to GM Ryan Poles’ wishes. Now, with the Bears slowly imploding and mired in a five-game losing streak, it appears that Eberflus has all but disappeared.

This leads to the obvious question: What does Warren plan to do once the final decision is made? ESPN’s Dan Graziano shared a fascinating little nugget this week. Although no specific names are mentioned, the Bears president is hoping to find someone of name value – a “bubbly” new addition, as they say.

Speaking of tradition: the Bears have plenty of it. They would have every reason to go with an offensive-minded coach if they were moving on from Matt Eberflus, but would Belichick be working in Chicago?

Graziano: I think Bears team president Kevin Warren, who is trying to get a new stadium built, would be interested in a great hire if they moved from Eberflus. And yes, that’s still an if. Remember, this time last year the entire league was certain that Eberflus wouldn’t be back in 2024. While I’ve heard that Belichick may be okay with giving up some control, I’ll believe it when I see it. Warren and GM Ryan Poles have a lot of power in this building, and bringing Belichick in would require a change in the power structure.

This certainly fits Kevin Warren’s way of thinking.

Since taking over the franchise, he has often spoken about thinking big, and he has maintained that mentality throughout his tenure as Big Ten commissioner. He was instrumental in expanding the conference, bringing with him financial powers like USC and UCLA. In addition, his previous stints in the NFL reflected a similar mentality. The St. Louis Rams hired Dick Vermeil in 1997. He had won a Rose Bowl at UCLA and led the Eagles to their first Super Bowl in 1980. The Detroit Lions hired Steve Mariucci in 2003. He had led San Francisco to four playoff appearances and an NFC championship game in the 1990s.

Kevin Warren might be thinking along the same lines. Bill Belichick is certainly the most accomplished name around, but he’s 72. He has no long-term viability. Who is left? Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel is the first person that comes to mind. He reached the playoffs three times in six seasons and achieved an AFC championship. The former Las Vegas Raiders head coach is a free agent and won a Super Bowl in 2002. Brian Flores masterfully transformed the Minnesota Vikings defense into the best in the NFL after leading Miami to back-to-back wins this season.

Chicago could also focus on the higher education market. Dan Lanning (Oregon) and Marcus Freeman (Notre Dame) are attracting major NFL interest. It will depend on how far Warren’s influence extends.