Chicago Bears Eye Matt Campbell for Coaching Role
The Chicago Bears, seeking a fresh perspective to revitalize their football franchise, are setting their sights on Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell as a prime candidate for their head coaching vacancy. Their interest comes amid a transitional period for the Bears, who recently parted ways with Matt Eberflus following a disappointing record of 14-32.
Campbell, who took the helm at Iowa State in 2016, has steadily built a formidable program, earning a 62-50 record and carving out a legacy as the most successful coach in the university's history. Highlighting his tenure, Campbell achieved a milestone by guiding the Cyclones to their first-ever 10-win season in 2024, a feat that put Iowa State firmly on the competitive map of college football. His leadership has not only transformed Iowa State into a team capable of consistently performing above expectations but has also led them to five consecutive winning seasons. This remarkable turnaround has captured the attention of professional teams like the Bears.
Campbell's strategic acumen was further underscored when Iowa State made its second Big 12 Championship Game appearance in six years during the 2024 season. Such achievements have not gone unnoticed, culminating in Campbell signing an eight-year extension with Iowa State in December, securing his commitment to the program through 2032. This long-term contract reflects Iowa State’s confidence in Campbell's ability to steer their football program towards continued successes. Despite the extension, the allure of the NFL and the opportunity to rebuild a storied franchise could be compelling prospects for Campbell.
Meanwhile, the Bears find themselves at a crossroads, seeking stability and a winning strategy. Following their 7-10 record last season, they have struggled with a 4-8 record in the current 2024 campaign. With Thomas Brown stepping in as the interim head coach after serving as the team’s pass game coordinator, the Bears are in a critical phase as they search for a leader capable of orchestrating a turnaround.
Brown's interim leadership saw the Bears finish the season on a high note with a victory against their long-time rivals, the Green Bay Packers. This win offers a glimpse of potential within the team but underscores the need for a strong, permanent figure at the helm to harness and cultivate this potential. With the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears are poised to reexamine and strengthen their roster, aiming to return to their past glories.
The potential integration of Campbell's collegiate success into the professional sphere presents an intriguing possibility for the Bears. His adeptness at fostering talent and implementing a winning culture aligns with the Bears' aspirations to rejuvenate their franchise. As discussions progress, the Chicago Bears organization, along with their passionate fanbase, eagerly anticipates the possibility of a new chapter under Campbell's guidance, aiming to restore the team to its revered status in the NFL landscape.