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Recently, I published an article detailing the Bears’ DC search, and you can find that insight here in this link.
Kevin Fishbain of “The Athletic” just revealed another external candidate is in play for the chief playcaller and Big Boss role on defense.
The Bears put in a request to interview Colts DBs coach Jonathan Gannon for defensive coordinator, a source told The Athletic.
— Kevin Fishbain (@kfishbain) January 18, 2021
This, in my personal opinion at least, comes as a surprise. Initial speculation was that the Chicago Bears were likely to promote from within, considering how thin the ice is for Matt Nagy’s coaching career to stand on in Chicago. However, it seems Halas Hall is comfortable in exploring new — and young — options outside of this current staff.
It also adds fuel to the speculation Jay Rodgers — the Bears’ current D-line coach — may be headed elsewhere. He was an internal candidate, and a likely hot commodity for DC jobs outside of Chicago. Allegedly, new Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley has circled Jay Rodgers as his top choice for his own DC position.
As for Jonathan Gannon, he’s an interesting choice in his own right. The 14-year coaching veteran has seen plenty of looks from around the league. His stops include with the Atlanta Falcons in 2007 as a defensive assistant; 2008-2011 as a college and pro scout for the (then) St. Louis Rams; 2012-2013 with the Tennessee Titans as an assistant DBs coach; 2014-2017 with the Minnesota Vikings in the same position; and most recently as the DBs coach for the Indianapolis Colts from 2018 to the present.
The Colts have featured some of the best performances in the league from their own secondary under Gannon’s tutelage. Now, he may get the opportunity to coordinate talent that includes Akiem Hicks and Khalil Mack up front; Roquan Smith at ILB; and a secondary filled with players like Kyle Fuller, Eddie Jackson, and Jaylon Johnson.
If you’re wondering which base he’s used to seeing, it’s a 4-3. However, fronts hardly matter anymore, as you can blend coverages with any type of front. Plus, the Colts were fantastic in mixing up coverages along with varying looks up front. Time will tell if Gannon is “the guy” in Chicago. We’ll keep you updated as more information comes along.