The Chicago Bears are a storied franchise in the NFL, with a rich history of success dating back to their origins in 1919. However, in recent years, the team has struggled to find consistent success, both on the field and in their leadership. As of the 2024 season, the Bears are once again searching for a new head coach, marking the third coaching change in less than a decade. But what exactly do the players want in the team’s next head coach? How do they envision a leader who can finally turn the tide for this long-suffering organization?
As the Bears embark on this crucial search for a new leader, the voices of the players are ringing louder than ever. After years of turmoil, missed playoff opportunities, and coaching instability, Chicago’s roster has some clear demands. They’re not just looking for a tactical genius or an offensive mastermind—they want a coach who can change the culture, hold players accountable, and lead with integrity.
### 1. **A Culture Shift: “We Need a Culture Change”**
Perhaps the most consistent theme that emerges when speaking to current and former Bears players is the desire for a culture shift. The team has been plagued by a series of disappointing seasons, filled with inconsistent play, frequent mistakes, and a sense that something important is missing. Many players have openly voiced that the Bears need a coach who can instill a winning mindset, create a foundation of accountability, and build a culture of trust and discipline.
A common refrain from Bears players is the need for a “culture change”—one that’s been missing from the team for far too long. In previous seasons, the Bears have been viewed as a team of underachievers, with many players failing to meet expectations. While talent may have been present, the franchise often lacked the cohesive spirit and consistency necessary for sustained success.
For example, in 2023, wide receiver DJ Moore, a key offseason acquisition, was clear in his desire for a shift in the team’s approach. “It’s not just about X’s and O’s,” Moore said. “It’s about coming together as a team, holding each other accountable, and doing things the right way every day. We need a culture change to start winning consistently.”
Players are looking for a coach who not only understands the intricacies of football but also has the ability to foster a positive and competitive environment. Chicago’s locker room has been described as fractured at times, with players pointing to a lack of unity or shared vision. That’s why the next head coach must be someone who prioritizes team chemistry, sets clear expectations, and gets everyone on the same page.
### 2. **Accountability and Transparency: “A Man of His Word”**
One of the most frequent qualities cited by Bears players when describing their ideal coach is a sense of accountability. A team in constant flux, with changing coaching staffs and player turnover, needs stability at the top—someone who can provide clarity and direction, and who holds themselves and others accountable.
Players want a coach who is “a man of his word”—someone who doesn’t just talk about accountability but actually embodies it. This isn’t just about demanding better performance on the field. It’s about setting standards for behavior, preparation, and work ethic and holding everyone, from the star players to the practice squad members, to those standards.
In his time with the Bears, quarterback Justin Fields, while still relatively early in his career, has spoken candidly about the need for accountability within the organization. “I want a coach who’s going to tell me the truth, no matter what,” Fields said. “I need someone who’s going to push me to be better but also be honest with me about what I need to work on.”
This sense of honesty and transparency is essential for the Bears, who have had to deal with inconsistent coaching messages in recent years. Players want a coach who leads with integrity and fairness and doesn’t play favorites or indulge in a “do as I say, not as I do” mentality. They want someone who establishes clear expectations from day one and is willing to hold everyone to the same high standard.
### 3. **Leadership: Someone Who Leads by Example**
For the Bears, leadership is a key component in the search for their next head coach. Players have expressed the need for a coach who leads not only with words but with actions. The next head coach must be someone who sets a strong example, both on and off the field.
A great coach is one who can inspire players, rally them during tough times, and create a sense of unity and purpose. This leadership extends beyond just making strategic decisions during the game—it’s about developing a relationship with the players and building a culture that prioritizes hard work, discipline, and mutual respect.
Veteran linebacker Roquan Smith, who was traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, spoke about the need for a coach who can inspire through leadership. “It’s important for the team to have a leader who can push you to do your best every day and who leads by example. The best coaches I’ve had were those who set the tone with their own work ethic, who showed up every day ready to compete and got us all on the same page.”
In the same vein, former Bears head coach Matt Nagy was often criticized for failing to connect with players on a personal level. A lack of strong, consistent leadership under Nagy left many players questioning his ability to motivate and elevate the team, even during the few moments when the Bears were competitive. The next coach must have the ability to connect with players, inspire them to take ownership of their roles, and ultimately help them maximize their potential.
### 4. **A Strong Football Mind: Tactical Knowledge**
While leadership, accountability, and culture are essential, the Bears also need a coach with strong football acumen. While many players are clamoring for cultural and organizational changes, they recognize that they also need a coach who knows how to win games.
From the offensive line to the quarterback position, the Bears have faced a number of tactical struggles over the years. The team’s struggles in creating a consistent offensive scheme under multiple coaches—particularly in developing Justin Fields—have been frustrating for players. A coach with a sharp football mind, especially someone who can implement an effective offensive system that suits the skills of Fields and the rest of the roster, would be key to unlocking the team’s potential.
A successful head coach for the Bears will have the tactical know-how to tailor the offense to his players’ strengths, implement effective schemes on both sides of the ball, and create an overall system that fosters efficiency, discipline, and execution.
### 5. **Winning Mentality and Stability**
Lastly, Bears players want a coach who embodies a winning mentality. The franchise has struggled with inconsistency and failed to live up to its historical expectations. Players want a coach who isn’t just focused on improvement but on bringing the Bears back to championship contention.
In their quest for a new head coach, the Bears will seek a leader who not only understands how to win but also how to sustain that success over time. Stability at the top will be critical, as the Bears look to break free from their cycle of coaching changes.
### Conclusion
As the Chicago Bears continue their search for a new head coach, the players have made their desires known. They’re looking for a coach who can shift the team’s culture, hold everyone accountable, lead with integrity, and bring a winning mentality to the organization. If the Bears can find a coach who embodies these qualities, the team may finally be able to break free from its years of mediocrity and return to the heights that the franchise and its passionate fanbase expect.
The road to success will undoubtedly be long, but with the right leadership, the Chicago Bears can once again be a force in the NFL.
