Alan Williams resigns as Bears’ defensive coordinator: A major blow to a rebuilding team
The Chicago Bears’ defense was already one of the biggest question marks heading into the 2023 season, and now those concerns have been amplified with the sudden resignation of defensive coordinator Alan Williams.
Williams, who was hired by the Bears in 2022, resigned on Wednesday, citing personal reasons. His departure leaves the Bears scrambling to find a new defensive coordinator just weeks before the start of the regular season.
Williams’ resignation is a major blow to the Bears, who are in the midst of a rebuilding process. The Bears’ defense was one of the worst units in the league last season, and Williams was tasked with improving it.
Williams made some progress in his first season with the Bears, but the team’s defense was still far from average. The Bears allowed 401.8 yards per game last season, which was the second-most in the league.
Williams’ departure leaves the Bears with a number of options for their next defensive coordinator. The team could promote from within, or they could look outside the organization.
Some potential internal candidates include linebackers coach Sean Desai and pass rush specialist Chris Rumph II. Desai was the Bears’ acting head coach for the final week of the 2021 season, and he has a strong reputation as a defensive mind. Rumph is a former NFL defensive end who has worked with some of the best pass rushers in the league, including Aaron Donald and Von Miller.
If the Bears look outside the organization, they could target a number of experienced defensive coordinators, such as Wade Phillips, Lovie Smith, and Vic Fangio. Phillips is a two-time Super Bowl champion who has coached some of the best defenses in NFL history. Smith is the former Bears head coach who led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2007. Fangio is a former Broncos head coach who is known for his aggressive defensive schemes.
Regardless of who the Bears choose as their next defensive coordinator, they will have a lot of work to do. The Bears have a young and talented defense, but they need to develop their players and find a scheme that works.
Williams’ resignation is a setback for the Bears, but it is also an opportunity for them to start fresh. The Bears need to find a defensive coordinator who can get the most out of their players and help them build a winning defense.
