It wouldn’t be a Chicago Bears head coaching search without a surprising name entering the mix. As the team appears to be in the final stages of its decision-making process, the Baltimore Ravens’ recent playoff loss has opened an intriguing door for the Bears.
Todd Monken Emerging as a Dark Horse Candidate for Bears Head Coach
While much of the focus has been on Ben Johnson and Mike McCarthy, Ravens’ offensive coordinator Todd Monken has quietly gained traction as a potential candidate. Now, with Baltimore eliminated from the playoffs, Monken is available to meet with the Bears in person this week—a meeting that could have huge implications.
Todd Monken’s Career
A Chicagoland native, Todd Monken’s first taste of a prominent position in the NFL came in 2016 as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offensive coordinator. After a stint with the Cleveland Browns, he returned to college football, leading Georgia to back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022 as their offensive coordinator. Monken then left for Baltimore and became the OC, helping Lamar Jackson win his second MVP award and likely another one this season. That said, here’s how the Ravens’ offense stacks against the rest of the NFL during the regular season:
- #1 in Total Yardage
- #1 in Rushing
- #3 in Scoring
- #7 in Passing
Success seems to follow wherever Monken goes, and if Ben Johnson or Mike McCarthy go elsewhere, he could become the top option among the many candidates the Bears have interviewed.
Todd Monken Labeled “Best Fit” for the Bears
Although Monken may not be the candidate Bears fans expected, he aligns well with the team’s needs. Even Pro Football Focus agrees, citing his ability to develop quarterbacks and create balanced, efficient offenses:
“Caleb Williams needs to play better within structure. Todd Monken has spent the past two years developing that exact skill with Lamar Jackson in Baltimore. Jackson is now one of the best pocket passers in the league. Of course, Monken also understands the value of running the football and playing stout defense. Perhaps he looks toward former opponents like ex-Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo or current Michigan play caller Wink Martindale to assist on that side of the ball.”
Honestly, Monken might be closer to Ben Johnson in the head coach race than many people think. Regardless of the Ravens’ playoff loss, Monken’s contributions in Baltimore have solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top offensive minds.
Last Word on Todd Monken and the Bears’ Head Coach Search
He’ll be a head coach someday. Whether it’s with the Bears, or another team in the future, Todd Monken has proved he’s ready to take that next step. He may not have the jaw-dropping trick plays like Ben Johnson or head coaching experience like Mike McCarthy, but he does have the offensive play call experience and proven track record of developing quarterbacks.
It’s now or never for the Bears. They have to make their decision quickly before it’s too late.
Main Image: Mitch Stringer – USA Today Sports
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