Bears to interview interim coach Thomas Brown for job

 

The Chicago Bears plan to interview interim head coach Thomas Brown for the permanent position.

Brown stepped in after Matt Eberflus was dismissed on November 29, following the Bears’ 4-8 record. Heading into the season finale on Sunday, the team stood at 4-12.

Despite the team’s 0-4 record under his leadership, general manager Ryan Poles told ESPN 1000 in Chicago on Sunday that Brown deserves consideration.

“I’ve been very impressed with Thomas and his leadership,” Poles said. “I know the results haven’t been there. It’s been a tough situation for him. I come from a background where you earn opportunities, and that’s how we got here with Thomas. I think he’s done a great job.”

Brown started the season as the Bears’ passing game coordinator before being promoted to offensive coordinator when Shane Waldron was let go after Week 10.

“You could see his leadership qualities, and then when he moved into the offensive coordinator role, things improved. We saw better offensive performance, and then at the head coach level, he got the chance to lead the entire team,” Poles said. “Just talking to him after games and being in team meetings, he’s straightforward. He challenges players to improve and holds them accountable. Thomas has many positive qualities, and I’ve been proud of how he’s stepped up and led the team, even though the results weren’t what we wanted in terms of wins and losses. But as a leader, he definitely has those qualities.”

Brown, 38, has over four years of NFL coaching experience and nine years in college football.

Other teams, such as the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints, also have coaching vacancies following midseason firings. Additional changes are anticipated after the regular season ends, often referred to as Black Monday.