Chicago Bears Eye Matt Campbell Amid Coaching Shake-Up
The Chicago Bears are navigating another season of upheaval, and prominently on their radar for the vacant head coach position is Iowa State's Matt Campbell. Known for his transformative impact in college football, Campbell is drawing considerable interest as the Bears seek a fresh start.
A Stellar College Record
Since taking over as Iowa State's head coach in 2016, Matt Campbell has redefined the program's trajectory. With a record of 62 wins and 50 losses, he holds a 55.4% winning percentage, making him the most successful coach in the school’s history. Under his guidance, Iowa State achieved five consecutive winning seasons—a significant turnaround for a program that struggled to earn national recognition in the past.
The pinnacle of Campbell's tenure came in 2024, when Iowa State celebrated its first-ever 10-win season. That same year, the team made its second appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game in six years. Such accomplishments underscore why Campbell is held in high regard and why the Bears find him an attractive candidate for their head coaching position.
A Committed Coach
Recognizing Campbell’s impact and potential for further success, Iowa State secured his services with an eight-year contract extension in December, keeping him through 2032. This commitment reflects both the university's faith in his leadership and Campbell's dedication to the program's continued success. Despite the attractive terms at Iowa State, the allure of the NFL and the challenge it presents may tempt Campbell to consider the Bears' proposition.
Bears' Coaching Transition
Amid their pursuit of Campbell, the Bears are moving on from Matt Eberflus, who concluded his tenure with a disappointing 14-32 record. Last season, the Bears posted a 7-10 record, which declined to 4-8 during the 2024 campaign. The team’s underperformance led to Eberflus’ departure, creating the current opportunity for change.
For the interim, Thomas Brown has stepped into the role of head coach. Formerly serving as the team's pass game coordinator, Brown brings his own set of skills and strategic ideas to the table. His immediate challenge was to salvage a salvaging ending to the Bears' 2024 campaign, highlighted by a victory over arch-rivals, the Green Bay Packers, in their last game of the season.
Drafting the Future
As the Bears regroup and prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, they hold the No. 10 pick, a valuable asset as they look to bolster their roster. The draft could significantly influence their strategy, particularly if they manage to secure a head coach with a strong vision like Campbell’s.
Ultimately, the decision of whether Campbell remains at Iowa State or takes a leap into the NFL will be closely watched across the football landscape. For the Bears, landing Campbell would symbolize a commitment to revolutionizing their performance—a much-needed evolution after recent struggles.