The Chicago Bears' search for a new offensive coordinator is a quiet but intense affair, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome. While the team has been tight-lipped about their plans, a recent development has sparked concern among supporters. The name on everyone's lips is Press Taylor, the passing game coordinator who has suddenly emerged as a potential in-house candidate for the role.
Taylor's journey to the top has been a rocky one. His previous attempts at similar positions have not been without controversy. When he took over as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator in Philadelphia in 2018, quarterback Carson Wentz's performance took a sharp downward turn, going from MVP contender to a complete failure by 2020. This led to head coach Doug Pederson's eventual firing, as he had wanted to promote Taylor. The situation in Jacksonville was no better.
Pederson appointed Taylor as the Jaguars' offensive coordinator in 2022, and while Trevor Lawrence had a strong first year, his performance declined sharply over the next two seasons, throwing 31 touchdowns and 21 interceptions. This decline was partly attributed to Taylor's role in organizing the team, rather than his play-calling abilities.
Given these past experiences, some fans are worried about the potential appointment of Press Taylor. The Bears' head coach, Ben Johnson, seems to be considering an outside hire, as he did with the recently departed Declan Doyle. With the scouting combine just around the corner on February 23rd, the pressure is on to find the right candidate, and the team's decision could significantly impact the future of the franchise.
Erik Lambert, a seasoned football writer with over 15 years of experience covering the Chicago Bears, offers a balanced perspective. He acknowledges Taylor's potential but suggests that his current role might be more suitable, allowing him to focus on refining the passing game for Caleb Williams. The key question remains: will the Bears stick with their in-house candidate or opt for an external hire? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the search for the perfect offensive coordinator is far from over.
