As the Chicago Bears continue their search for a new head coach, one name that has been floated in recent discussions is Mike McCarthy. The former Green Bay Packers head coach, who led the team to a Super Bowl title in 2010, is now back on the market after a brief hiatus. With McCarthy’s extensive coaching background, particularly his work with quarterbacks and offensive schemes, his potential hire could have significant ramifications for the Bears’ future.
But McCarthy’s impact would not be limited to just his leadership. As a seasoned NFL coach, he’s built an extensive network of coaches and personnel over his long career. If hired, McCarthy could bring several individuals along with him, people who share his coaching philosophy and who would help establish his vision for the Bears’ future. In this post, we will explore who McCarthy could bring to Chicago, examining potential staff additions that could help elevate the Bears’ performance.
### 1. **Joe Philbin – Offensive Line Coach**
One of the first names that come to mind when thinking of Mike McCarthy’s potential staff is Joe Philbin. Philbin has a long history working alongside McCarthy, serving as the offensive coordinator for the Packers for several years. His expertise in offensive line play would be invaluable for a Bears team that has struggled to build a consistent and dominant front five.
Philbin’s experience includes not only time with the Packers but also a stint as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach. He is well-regarded for his ability to develop offensive lines, an area where the Bears have faced challenges. Under Philbin’s guidance, Chicago’s offensive line could become a unit capable of protecting Justin Fields, allowing him to develop as a passer, and opening up the running game for playmakers like Khalil Herbert.
### 2. **Dom Capers – Defensive Coordinator**
While McCarthy is primarily known for his offensive acumen, one of the most significant hires he could make is on the defensive side of the ball. Dom Capers, who was McCarthy’s defensive coordinator during their time together in Green Bay, could be a prime candidate to run the Bears’ defense.
Capers is a veteran coach with over 40 years of experience in the NFL, having worked as a defensive coordinator for multiple teams, including the Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars. His extensive knowledge of defensive schemes, particularly his work with 3-4 and 4-3 defensive fronts, would provide the Bears with a solid, adaptable defense that can compete in the modern NFL.
The Bears’ defense, though showing flashes of brilliance, has lacked consistency in recent years. Capers’ ability to design complex defensive schemes and adjust to different offenses would help improve this unit. Furthermore, his experience working with McCarthy would ensure the team’s defense is well integrated into the overall strategy.
### 3. **Nathaniel Hackett – Offensive Coordinator**
Another potential addition to McCarthy’s staff is Nathaniel Hackett, who served as the Packers’ offensive coordinator under McCarthy. Hackett is widely regarded for his creative play-calling and his ability to develop a dynamic offense. After his tenure in Green Bay, Hackett took on the offensive coordinator role with the Jacksonville Jaguars and later became the head coach of the Denver Broncos. While his time with the Broncos was short-lived, Hackett’s previous successes as a coordinator could be the key to unlocking the Bears’ offensive potential.
Under Hackett, the Bears could implement an offense that emphasizes both the run and the pass, tailoring the system to fit Justin Fields’ strengths. Hackett’s familiarity with McCarthy’s offensive philosophies would provide continuity and structure, allowing the Bears to move away from their recent offensive struggles and build a more potent attack.
Hackett’s versatility as a play-caller and his focus on quarterback development could be crucial in nurturing Fields’ growth. A strong offensive mind like Hackett would give Fields the opportunity to evolve as a passer, while also leveraging his athleticism as a dual-threat quarterback.
### 4. **Jason Garrett – Quarterbacks Coach**
One of the most interesting additions McCarthy could make to his staff is former Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett. Garrett, like McCarthy, has a background as both a quarterback and a coach with a strong offensive focus. Garrett and McCarthy share similar philosophies when it comes to building a disciplined, efficient offense. Garrett has spent significant time as an offensive coordinator and head coach, and his experience with quarterbacks could be pivotal for the development of Justin Fields.
During his time with the Cowboys, Garrett was known for his structured offensive system, with a focus on balanced play-calling and the development of young quarterbacks. If McCarthy were to bring Garrett in as a quarterbacks coach, he could help Fields with the technical aspects of his game, including footwork, decision-making, and reading defenses. Garrett’s presence could ensure that Fields is given every opportunity to maximize his potential and reach the next level as a quarterback.
### 5. **Al Harris – Defensive Backs Coach**
A more unconventional but potentially highly beneficial hire would be Al Harris as the Bears’ defensive backs coach. Harris, who played for the Packers under McCarthy, has since become a respected coach, working in various defensive coaching roles, including with the Green Bay Packers’ secondary. His playing career as a cornerback in the NFL, paired with his coaching experience, would be invaluable for a Bears secondary that has had its ups and downs in recent years.
Under Harris, the Bears could see improvement in their defensive backfield, especially in terms of technique, coverage schemes, and overall playmaking. With a promising young secondary, including players like Jaquan Brisker and Kyler Gordon, Harris could help turn Chicago’s defense into one of the league’s more feared units.
### 6. **Jim Tomsula – Defensive Line Coach**
Another name McCarthy could consider bringing aboard is Jim Tomsula, the former San Francisco 49ers defensive line coach who had stints as a head coach with the 49ers and as a defensive coach with the Washington Football Team. Tomsula is known for his no-nonsense approach to coaching and his ability to develop strong defensive linemen.
Tomsula’s expertise could help rejuvenate the Bears’ defensive line, which has had its moments but lacks consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. With Tomsula’s help, the Bears’ defensive front could become more disruptive, allowing their linebackers and secondary to benefit from the added pressure.
### Conclusion
If Mike McCarthy were hired by the Chicago Bears, he would likely bring along a group of coaches who share his vision and understand the intricacies of his system. From Joe Philbin working with the offensive line to Dom Capers bringing his defensive experience to the table, McCarthy would assemble a staff that would aim to build a balanced, competitive team. With McCarthy’s leadership, the Bears could potentially develop into a playoff-contending team in the near future, providing hope for a fanbase that has been waiting for sustained success.