The Chicago Bears have recently made a major coaching change, hiring Eric Washington as their new defensive coordinator. This move comes after the resignation of Alan Williams ahead of Week 2 last season. Washington, 54, brings with him a wealth of experience, having spent 20 seasons coaching in the NFL, including the past four years with the Buffalo Bills.
While with the Bills, Washington served as the assistant head coach and defensive line coach, helping lead the defense to impressive numbers in 2023. Buffalo’s defense allowed the fourth-fewest points per game at 18.3 and recorded the fourth-most sacks with a total of 54. These remarkable statistics caught the attention of the Chicago Bears’ coaching staff, and Washington’s hiring is seen as a step towards further improving the team’s defense.
In a statement, Washington expressed his excitement about joining the Bears and contributing to the organization. He will be the third addition to the Bears’ coaching staff this week, following the hires of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and quarterbacks coach Kerry Joseph.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus, who took over playcalling duties after Williams’ departure and will continue to call the defense in 2024, stated during his season-ending news conference that he was looking for a defensive coordinator who could take charge in his absence and work well with the rest of the coaching staff. With Washington’s experience and his previous stint with the Bears as a defensive assistant and defensive line coach, he is expected to fill this role effectively.
Under Washington’s guidance, the Bears’ defense will aim to build on their successes from the 2023 season. In that year, the team excelled against the run and recorded a high number of interceptions. However, the focus for improvement this season will be the pass rush, as the Bears ranked low in pressure percentage and sacks.
Overall, the addition of Eric Washington as the Bears’ new defensive coordinator is seen as a positive move for the team. With his extensive coaching experience and impressive track record, Washington is expected to bring new strategies and ideas to further strengthen the Bears’ defense in the upcoming season.
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