Chicago Bears Eye Matt Campbell for Coaching Position
As the Chicago Bears move into a pivotal phase of their rebuilding process, the organization has set its sights on Iowa State's esteemed head coach, Matt Campbell, to fill their coaching vacancy. This pursuit follows the recent departure of Matt Eberflus, whose tenure concluded with a challenging 14-32 record. With Campbell’s track record of success at Iowa State, his potential move to the NFL is a topic of significant intrigue and speculation.
Matt Campbell's Stellar Record at Iowa State
Matt Campbell has been at the helm of Iowa State's football program since 2016, where he has methodically built a reputation as the most successful coach in the school's history. Over his tenure, Campbell has amassed a commendable 62-50 record, translating to a 55.4% winning percentage. His leadership has transformed the Cyclones into a formidable force in college football, a testament to his strategic acumen and coaching prowess.
Under Campbell's guidance, Iowa State has achieved several historic milestones. Most notably, the Cyclones enjoyed their first-ever 10-win season in 2024, marking a significant achievement in the program's history. Additionally, that same season saw Iowa State make its second appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game in six years, underscoring Campbell’s ability to consistently drive his team to success.
His impact on the program is further solidified by a remarkable streak of five consecutive winning seasons, a period during which Iowa State's football identity has been redefined. These achievements have cemented Campbell’s status as a valuable figure in collegiate coaching, drawing attention from NFL franchises seeking to replicate this success on a larger stage.
Potential Transition to the NFL
In recent developments, Campbell signed an eight-year extension with Iowa State in December 2024, extending his contract through 2032. This commitment reflects Iowa State's desire to retain Campbell’s guidance and leadership. However, the allure of the NFL remains potent, and the Chicago Bears are notably interested in bringing his talents to the professional level.
The Bears' coaching vacancy arose after a disappointing performance in the 2024 campaign, where the team held a 4-8 record following a 7-10 season the year prior. In response to the coaching change, Thomas Brown, previously the team’s pass game coordinator, was appointed as the interim head coach. Brown led the Bears to a spirited victory over the Green Bay Packers in their final game, presenting a potential turning point for the team.
The Bears' Future Outlook
With the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears are in a position to make significant improvements to their roster. The potential hiring of Matt Campbell could be a pivotal move in reshaping the team’s future. A coach with a winning pedigree, adept at developing talent and fostering a culture of resilience and competitiveness, represents a promising candidate to lead the Bears out of their recent struggles.
The football community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if Campbell’s collegiate success can translate to the professional realm. His strategic mindset and proven track record make him an enticing prospect for the Bears, as they strive to return to prominence in the NFL. Whether Campbell ultimately chooses to make the leap will remain a focal point of conversation as the Bears navigate their off-season endeavors.