The Chicago Bears have parted ways with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron after only nine games, a decision triggered by the team’s disappointing three-game losing streak. During this stretch, the Bears’ offense, along with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, has faced significant challenges.
Why did Waldron’s tenure with the Bears fall short? Wide receiver Keenan Allen shared his perspective.
“I would say just probably he was too nice of a guy,” Allen remarked about Waldron’s inability to maintain control during his time in Chicago, as reported by the Chicago Tribune. “I think during OTAs and training camp, he kind of fell into a trap of letting things go, not holding people accountable. Obviously, those things lead to a slippery slope.”
Before joining the Bears, Waldron served as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks from 2021 to 2023. He was brought on board last offseason to replace Luke Getsy, who was also dismissed after two seasons and has since faced his own challenges with the Las Vegas Raiders.
“I take full accountability for that,” said Bears head coach Matt Eberflus on Wednesday, the day after Waldron’s exit was announced. “I take full responsibility for that, and it’s got to get better. The details of creativity have to improve, and it’s got to improve this week.”
Currently, the Bears’ offense ranks near the bottom of the league, averaging only 169.6 passing yards (30th in the NFL), 108.1 rushing yards (24th), and 277.7 total yards (30th) per game, alongside a meager 19.4 points (24th). In contrast, Waldron’s offense in Seattle last season averaged 230.0 passing yards (14th), 92.9 rushing yards (28th), and 21.4 points (17th) per game.
The scrutiny surrounding Caleb Williams, the Bears’ first overall pick, has intensified as he has thrown for just 1,785 yards and nine touchdowns, with an 81.0 passer rating and a completion rate of 60.5%. He has also rushed for 236 yards. “I took a few sacks that I shouldn’t have,” Williams reflected after being sacked nine times by the Patriots. “I think that getting back to getting the ball out of my hands, being decisive is really important. That needs to start now.”
The Bears were close to achieving a 5-2 record before a heartbreaking 52-yard Hail Mary by the Washington Commanders dashed their hopes. Following that, they suffered losses to the Arizona Cardinals and the Patriots, dropping their record to 4-5 and placing them at the bottom of the NFC North.
This Sunday, Allen and the Bears will face off against their NFC North rival, the Green Bay Packers, who currently hold a 6-3 record. The game is set to kick off at 1 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on FOX and the FOX Sports app.
