As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Chicago Bears are preparing for a season that could mark a significant turning point in their franchise history. Among the many changes on the horizon, one of the most intriguing developments involves a reunion between Matt Eberflus, the current head coach of the Bears, and a former Bears coach who will return to the team. This reunion is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the Bears’ strategy and overall success in the upcoming season, as the organization looks to improve both on the field and in terms of its culture. This article will explore the significance of this reunion, how it came to be, the impact it will have on the Bears, and what it means for the team’s trajectory under Eberflus.
The Context: Matt Eberflus and the Bears’ Struggles
When Matt Eberflus was hired as the head coach of the Chicago Bears in 2022, there was a sense of cautious optimism surrounding the move. Eberflus had come from the Indianapolis Colts, where he had gained recognition as a defensive coordinator. His ability to develop strong defensive units and foster a disciplined team culture was highly regarded. However, the Bears’ performance in the 2023 season was less than stellar, and the team struggled with inconsistency, particularly on offense. The Bears finished the season with a disappointing record, and despite flashes of potential from quarterback Justin Fields, the team’s overall performance did not meet expectations.
This left Eberflus in a precarious position heading into the 2025 season. The Bears were in the midst of a rebuild, but with a promising young quarterback like Fields and a relatively strong defensive unit, it was clear that the time for improvement was now. The decision to reunite with a former Bears coach was seen as a strategic move to provide additional support to Eberflus, enhance the coaching staff, and bring a new dimension to the team’s leadership.
The Reunion: Who is the Former Bears Coach?
The coach in question is none other than John Fox, the former head coach of the Chicago Bears from 2015 to 2017. Fox, who had a long and respected career in the NFL, including stints as the head coach of the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos, took over the Bears in 2015 after the firing of Marc Trestman. His tenure in Chicago was marked by a mixture of challenges and moments of hope, as the team worked through a rebuilding process. Fox’s final season with the Bears in 2017 ended in a disappointing 5-11 record, but his leadership helped lay the groundwork for the future, particularly in terms of developing a solid defensive unit and emphasizing discipline.
In 2018, Fox was replaced by Matt Nagy, and the Bears continued their search for a head coach who could lead them to sustained success. However, Fox’s influence remained, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, as his former players and coaches who had worked under him continued to shape the team’s culture. Now, in 2025, Fox’s return to the Bears organization is seen as a way to bolster the team’s leadership and coaching staff, with a focus on defense, leadership development, and stability.
Why John Fox’s Return Matters
The decision to bring back John Fox is a significant one, as it suggests that Eberflus and the Bears’ front office recognize the need for a steady hand in the organization. The following are some key reasons why this reunion could have a profound impact on the Bears in 2025.
1. Defensive Expertise and Leadership
John Fox is widely regarded as one of the best defensive minds in the NFL. During his previous tenure with the Bears, Fox emphasized the importance of defensive discipline and toughness. His ability to develop defensive schemes that could stymie opponents while creating turnovers was one of the defining characteristics of his coaching philosophy. Even though Eberflus is known for his work with the defense, particularly as the Colts’ defensive coordinator, Fox’s additional experience could provide invaluable insight into defensive strategy.
The Bears’ defense in 2023 was a mixed bag, with some standout individual performances but a lack of consistency as a unit. The team struggled to generate a consistent pass rush, and the secondary often found itself exposed against high-powered offenses. Bringing Fox back into the fold could help address these issues. Fox’s expertise in defensive scheming, combined with Eberflus’ own defensive philosophy, could result in a more effective, cohesive unit that can compete with the league’s best offenses.
Additionally, Fox’s leadership and experience could help mentor the Bears’ young defensive players. Many of the Bears’ key defensive contributors, such as linebacker Roquan Smith and defensive lineman Akiem Hicks, were drafted during Fox’s time with the team. The opportunity for these players to reconnect with their former coach could help improve their performances, as Fox’s tough, no-nonsense coaching style is known to bring out the best in his players.
2. Stability and Continuity
One of the most difficult challenges for the Bears in recent years has been the instability at the top. With multiple coaching changes, the team has struggled to find consistency in its leadership and vision. Eberflus’ hiring signified a potential for stability, but his first season was still filled with growing pains. The addition of Fox is a move to strengthen that stability, particularly in terms of the defensive side of the ball.
Fox is a respected figure within the NFL, and his presence on the coaching staff will help create a more cohesive environment for the Bears. This continuity is particularly important for the team’s young roster, including Justin Fields. A stable coaching environment will allow the players to focus on their development without the distraction of constant turnover or uncertainty. The familiarity and comfort of working with someone who understands the Bears’ culture will be crucial for building long-term success.
3. Development of Justin Fields
Perhaps the most important aspect of the 2025 season for the Bears will be the development of Justin Fields. Fields has shown flashes of greatness but remains a work in progress as a quarterback. The Bears’ offense under Eberflus has struggled to consistently support Fields, and his development will be a key focus for the team in the coming years.
The addition of John Fox, however, could have an indirect effect on Fields’ progress. While Fox is a defensive coach, his understanding of the game as a whole and his experience with quarterbacks could help guide Fields in terms of his decision-making, leadership, and understanding of opposing defensive schemes. Additionally, Fox’s return could help improve the offensive line, as Fox has always placed a strong emphasis on protecting the quarterback and establishing a physical run game. Fields will need support from all aspects of the team to reach his full potential, and Fox’s expertise could help make that a reality.
4. Changing the Bears’ Culture
John Fox’s time with the Bears was not without its challenges, but one thing he did accomplish was laying a foundation of toughness and discipline. While the team’s on-field record was not stellar, Fox emphasized accountability and work ethic, and many of his players still speak highly of his leadership. This work ethic is something that the Bears have struggled to maintain over the years, especially after Fox’s departure. The arrival of Fox in 2025 can be seen as an effort to reignite that sense of discipline, accountability, and toughness.
In the NFL, culture is everything. Teams that are consistently competitive year after year have a solid foundation in terms of leadership and locker room culture. By bringing Fox back, Eberflus is showing that he understands the importance of creating a culture of excellence, particularly within the context of a rebuilding team. The Bears need a reset, and Fox could play a pivotal role in establishing the right mindset for both coaches and players alike.
The Impact on the Bears’ 2025 Season
With the reunion of Matt Eberflus and John Fox, the Bears are clearly looking to make a statement heading into the 2025 season. This reunion is not just about nostalgia or bringing back a familiar face; it is a strategic move to ensure that the team is well-prepared to take the next step in its development.
The addition of Fox will help solidify the Bears’ defensive strategy while also offering the team an opportunity to build a stronger organizational culture. Fox’s leadership will provide the experience and steady hand that Eberflus needs, particularly in a year when the Bears are looking to compete at a higher level.
On the field, the Bears’ defense should be significantly improved under the guidance of both Eberflus and Fox. The defense has the potential to be one of the team’s strongest units, and with a retooled offense that includes a more stable offensive line and potentially new weapons, the Bears have the chance to make a push for the playoffs. The success of the 2025 season will likely hinge on the development of Justin Fields, the improvement of the defense, and the overall stability of the coaching staff. If Fox and Eberflus can work together effectively, the Bears’ future could be brighter than it has been in years.