The Chicago Bears have let go of head coach Matt Eberflus after their recent 20-23 Thanksgiving loss to the Detroit Lions. His time with the team ends with a rough 14-32 record overall, including a brutal 5-19 in one-score games — one of the worst marks in NFL history.
General Manager Ryan Poles broke the news, saying, “This morning, after meeting with George and Kevin, we informed Matt of our decision to move in a different direction with the leadership of our football team and the head coaching position.” Offensive coordinator Thomas Brown will take over as interim head coach for the rest of the season.
Brown joined the Bears this year after working as the Panthers’ offensive coordinator, where he gained valuable play-calling experience. The offense has improved noticeably since stepping into the Bears’ offensive coordinator role midseason. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has shown growth under Brown, highlighted by three second-half touchdowns in the Thanksgiving game against Detroit. Brown also worked with the Rams, contributing to their Super Bowl LVI win under Sean McVay.
At 4-8, the Bears’ playoff hopes are all but gone, but Brown now has a chance to prove himself as a leader. The decision to move on from Eberflus came after mounting frustrations, including clock management issues in the Detroit game. Poles thanked Eberflus, saying, “We extend our gratitude…and wish him and his family the best moving forward.” For Brown, this interim role is a big chance to guide the team and potentially earn a permanent job.
Thomas Brown’s Journey In Football
Thomas Brown’s football career started as a player. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the sixth round back in 2008, but injuries ended his playing days early. From there, he jumped into coaching, working with college programs like Wisconsin and Miami, where he was an offensive coordinator.
In 2020, he joined the Rams, eventually becoming assistant head coach and playing a key role in their Super Bowl-winning season. By 2023, Brown was the Panthers’ offensive coordinator, gaining valuable experience despite a turbulent year with multiple coaching changes. His ability to develop quarterbacks and design effective game plans made him stand out, which led to his spot with the Bears.
Brown’s got a big task ahead—taking charge of a team that’s rebuilding around their young quarterback, Caleb Williams. The playoffs are probably out of reach, but these last eight games are still important. It’s a chance for Brown to show he’s got what it takes to be a head coach and help the team get a better look at its young talent.
