With the 2023 offseason in full swing, there are a handful of teams searching for a new head coach. The Chicago Bears went through the process last year (for both general manager and head coach). Now, they have a couple of assistant coaches that could be head coach candidates.
The Athletic‘s Mike Jones shared a list of head coach candidates to watch during this coaching cycle, and he included Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy and offensive line coach Chris Morgan.
Given Getsy’s role in quarterback Justin Fields’ breakout season, it’s not a surprise to find him among this list of candidates. Getsy did interview for a head coaching job last year before joining the Bears as offensive coordinator.
Justin Fields remains a work in progress, but Year 2 for the former Ohio State star has featured significant growth, and Getsy is a big reason for that. Leaning into Fields’ strengths as a dual-threat quarterback, Getsy designed an offense that positioned Fields to deliver historic rushing performances while also exhibiting promise as a passer. The 38-year-old former Packers quarterbacks coach and passing coordinator directs an offense that leads the NFL with 181 rushing yards per game.
While Getsy’s name isn’t a surprise on this list, Morgan certainly is. Not only has he helped orchestrated Chicago’s top-ranked rushing attack, but he’s someone who’s garnering attention in NFL coaching circles.
Morgan also has played a key role in developing the Bears offense into the most imposing rushing attack in the league. Although unknown to outsiders, he has begun developing a strong reputation in NFL coaching circles. In addition to the rushing success in his first season with the Bears, Morgan coached under Kyle Shanahan in Washington and Atlanta, and played a role in the playoff runs of both teams. Morgan is expected to receive interest for offensive coordinator positions this offseason.
There are currently five head coaching vacancies following the conclusion of the 2022 regular season. The Broncos, Cardinals, Colts, Panthers and Texans are all looking for new head coaches.
So far, Getsy and Morgan haven’t received any interview requests. But that certainly change — be it this coaching cycle or perhaps next year.
