Bears Eye Matt Campbell Amid Coaching Shuffle
In what could be a pivotal moment for the Chicago Bears’ future, speculation is building around Iowa State's head coach, Matt Campbell, potentially stepping into the NFL as the Bears seek a new leader. This development comes as the team continues its search following the departure of Matt Eberflus, whose tenure ended with a disappointing 14-32 record.
Campbell's Stellar Collegiate Career
Matt Campbell has made a significant impact at Iowa State since his arrival in 2016. Under his guidance, the Cyclones achieved heights previously unimaginable for the program, including the institution's first-ever 10-win season in 2024. Campbell's tenure boasts a 62-50 record, which translates to a 55.4% winning percentage — no small feat considering Iowa State's challenging position within the competitive Big 12 conference.
Campbell is lauded for being the most successful coach in Iowa State history, not simply for the wins but also for creating a culture of consistent excellence. Over five consecutive winning seasons, he established Iowa State as a formidable force, adept enough to earn its second Big 12 Championship Game appearance in just six years under his leadership.
As of December, Campbell demonstrated his commitment to the Cyclones by signing an eight-year extension, which ties him to the program through 2032. This displays not only his devotion to Iowa State but also the university’s confidence in his ability to continue elevating their football program.
Bears’ Coaching Carousel
Following Eberflus's exit amidst an underwhelming run, the Bears appointed Thomas Brown as the interim head coach. Brown, who initially served as the team's pass game coordinator, made an immediate mark by leading the Bears to victory over the rival Green Bay Packers in their season finale. His interim position, however, leaves room for the Bears to explore longer-term options, which brings Matt Campbell sharply into focus.
Despite a somewhat tumultuous period, the Bears' future is not devoid of hope. The team concluded their last season with a 7-10 record, sliding to 4-8 in the subsequent 2024 campaign. Nonetheless, they have secured the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, providing potential leverage to bolster their squad significantly.
Evaluating the Next Step
Chicago’s interest in Campbell is logical given his track record of building a competitive team and fostering a culture of success. His ability to turn around a program like Iowa State could be precisely what the Bears need to return to playoff contention and reclaim their prestige in the NFL.
However, the transition from collegiate to professional coaching is no minor leap. The NFL presents unique challenges and increased scrutiny, demanding adaptability and strategic acumen beyond that required at the college level. Yet, Campbell's structured approach and success at Iowa State suggest he might possess the necessary qualities to manage such a transition smoothly.
As the Bears navigate these pivotal decisions, Campbell’s proven leadership and strategic prowess make him an intriguing candidate. While the path from aiming for collegiate success to triumph in the NFL is fraught with challenges, the potential rewards for both the Bears and Campbell could be substantial if all pieces fall into place.
With the offseason now in full swing, all eyes in Chicago and beyond are fixed on the Bears' front office as they deliberate over this crucial hiring decision. Whether Matt Campbell will answer the call of the NFL remains to be seen, but in the meantime, his impact on the football landscape continues to resonate strongly, regardless of the chosen arena.