New Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is busy assembling his new coaching staff in Chicago, which will include a couple of familiar faces from the Colts.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Eberflus is bringing cornerbacks coach James Rowe and linebackers coach Dave Borgonzi with him from the Colts. Borgonzi was expected to follow Eberflus, as previously reported, but Rowe is a new addition.
Borgonzi has been instrumental in the success of Colts linebacker Darius Leonard, who has established himself as one of the best linebackers in the NFL. The Bears also happen to have a top linebacker on their roster in Roquan Smith, who would benefit greatly from the influence of both Eberflus and Borgonzi.
Rowe joined the Colts coaching staff last season, but he has extensive coaching experience in the secondary both at the NFL and collegiate level. The assumption is Rowe will serve as a coach in the secondary, where he’ll be tasked with remaking a secondary with some holes. But he’s got some talent to work with in cornerback Jaylon Johnson and safety Eddie Jackson.
Luke Getsy as OC is the top priority for new #Bears coach Matt Eberflus, but he’s already got a few defensive coaches on board — CBs coach James Rowe and LBs coach Dave Borgonzi. https://t.co/3IqtD6fkPX
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 28, 2022
Eberflus’ most important hire will be offensive coordinator, given the importance of developing quarterback Justin Fields. Packers quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Luke Getsy has reportedly been offered the Bears’ offensive coordinator position. Chicago has also interviewed Texans quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Pep Hamilton.
Eberflus is also zeroing in on Raiders interim head coach Rich Bisaccia to serve as his special teams coordinator.