Chicago Bears Eye Matt Campbell for Coaching Role
In a strategic move that could redefine their future, the Chicago Bears are reportedly considering Iowa State's Matt Campbell for their head coaching vacancy. This development follows the team's decision to part ways with former coach Matt Eberflus, whose three-year tenure culminated in a lackluster 14-32 record.
Campbell’s Stellar Tenure at Iowa State
Matt Campbell has made a name for himself during his impressive run as Iowa State's head coach, a position he has held since 2016. Over eight seasons, Campbell has amassed a record of 62-50, making him the most successful coach in the program's history. Under his leadership, the Cyclones achieved a 55.4% winning percentage, an achievement that underscores his effectiveness and capability as a coach.
In 2024, Campbell reached a significant milestone, guiding Iowa State to its first-ever 10-win season. That same year, the team made its second appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game within a span of six years, signaling a period of consistent success under his guidance. Campbell’s tenure at Iowa State has also been marked by a remarkable series of five consecutive winning seasons, further cementing his legacy at the program.
Recognizing his contributions and potential, Iowa State moved swiftly to secure Campbell's future with the program, offering him an eight-year contract extension in December, which keeps him with the Cyclones through the 2032 season. This decision reflects both the university's confidence in his abilities and the growing interest from other teams looking to benefit from his coaching prowess.
Bears’ Transition and Future Prospects
The Bears’ management finds itself at a crossroads following a challenging season that ended with a 4-8 record in 2024, after a somewhat promising 7-10 finish the previous year. In the interim, the team has appointed Thomas Brown, formerly the pass game coordinator, as the interim head coach. Interestingly, Brown helped the Bears close out their season on a high note with a victory over their arch-rivals, the Green Bay Packers.
As the Bears organization evaluates its options, the possibility of bringing in a seasoned and successful coach like Campbell could be a game-changer. His track record at Iowa State highlights his potential to instill the discipline and strategic mindset needed to revitalize a team looking to rebuild its reputation in the NFL.
NFL Draft and the Road Ahead
Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears hold the No. 10 draft pick, a valuable asset that could play a pivotal role in reshaping their roster. The inclusion of a coach like Campbell could provide the strategic insight necessary to make the most of this opportunity, potentially ushering in a new era of success for the franchise.
While discussions regarding Campbell's potential move to Chicago are still in the early stages, the prospect is tantalizing for Bears fans eager for a turnaround. A coach of Campbell’s caliber, known for elevating a college program significantly, may hold the key to reversing Chicago's fortunes and setting the team on a trajectory toward consistent success.
As the Bears’ search for a new coach unfolds, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the team's future. Whether or not Campbell becomes the next head coach, his impact at Iowa State offers a blueprint for success that many teams will be keen to emulate. For now, all eyes will be on Chicago as they navigate this pivotal moment in their storied history.