Matt Campbell in the Spotlight for the Bears' Coaching Vacancy
The Chicago Bears are in the midst of a transformative phase as they consider potential candidates to fill their head coaching vacancy. One name that has quickly ascended to the top of their list is Matt Campbell, the well-regarded head coach from Iowa State. Campbell has made quite an impression during his stint in the collegiate ranks, capturing the attention of NFL executives with his leadership and coaching acumen.
Since taking the reins at Iowa State in 2016, Campbell has not only amassed a noteworthy 62-50 record but has also left an indelible mark on the program. With a 55.4% winning percentage, he stands as the most successful coach in the school's history. His tenure is highlighted by leading the Cyclones to five consecutive winning seasons, a milestone that underscores his ability to maintain competitive consistency.
Perhaps the pinnacle of his coaching career at Iowa State came in 2024, when he guided the team to its first-ever 10-win season. That same year, the Cyclones made their second appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game under Campbell’s leadership, reinforcing his reputation as a coach capable of elevating a program to significant heights.
Campbell’s impact has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his eight-year contract extension with Iowa State, signed in December and binding him to the program through 2032. This long-term commitment speaks volumes about the confidence Iowa State's administration has in his vision and direction for the future. However, the allure of coaching in the NFL presents a compelling challenge that may sway even the most committed college coach.
The Bears’ search for a new head coach follows the departure of Matt Eberflus, whose tenure ended with a disappointing 14-32 record. The previous season saw the Bears struggling to a 7-10 record before slipping further to 4-8 in the 2024 campaign. Amidst these challenges, Thomas Brown stepped up as the interim head coach. Originally serving as the Bears' pass game coordinator, Brown’s leadership was pivotal in securing a morale-boosting victory against the Green Bay Packers to close the season.
With the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears are positioned to make strategic moves to bolster their roster as they transition into a new era. A change in the head coaching role is a crucial component of this strategy, and they are undoubtedly exploring all avenues to ensure they appoint the right candidate to lead them forward.
Matt Campbell's potential transition to the NFL would not only be a significant move for him personally but also a pivotal moment for both the Bears and Iowa State. The Bears are in dire need of a leader who can bring stability and a winning mentality back to the franchise. Campbell’s proven track record of turning Iowa State into a competitive force in college football offers a glimmer of hope for a team eager to change its fortunes.
As the coaching carousel spins and the Bears continue their pursuit of a head coach who can restore the franchise's glory, the attention on Matt Campbell is well-deserved. His ability to inspire, develop talent, and achieve success against the odds makes him an attractive candidate. While Campbell’s current commitment to Iowa State suggests he is there to stay, the opportunity to coach at the highest level of football may prove irresistible.
The coming weeks will likely reveal more about the Bears' intentions and whether Campbell is persuaded to bring his coaching prowess to the NFL stage. For now, the speculation continues, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how this potential coaching coup plays out for the Chicago Bears.