Bears Offseason Changes: Coaching, Front Office & Free Agency Outlook

Change and Transition for the Chicago Bears as NFL Offseason Begins

The Chicago Bears are experiencing significant change as the NFL offseason gets underway. February 3, 2026, marks a period of transition for the franchise, with adjustments occurring within both the front office and the coaching staff.

Assistant General Manager Ian Cunningham has departed the Bears organization to take on a role with the Atlanta Falcons. This move signifies a shift in leadership within the team’s management structure.

On the coaching side, the Bears have also seen departures. Running backs coach Eric Bieniemy has returned to the Kansas City Chiefs, and offensive coordinator Declan Doyle has joined the Baltimore Ravens. These changes leave vacancies on the coaching staff that will need to be addressed as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

With free agency approaching, the Bears are evaluating their roster. The offense is largely intact, though potential changes are being considered for the left tackle and wide receiver positions. The defensive line is identified as an area needing further talent acquisition.

The team is also preparing for potential free agent departures. Reports indicate the Bears are predicted to lose one of their top free agents to a team within the NFC. Details regarding which player this may be were not immediately available.

Discussions surrounding these changes, along with early free agency strategies, were recently featured on “Bear & Balanced,” a program covering the Chicago Bears. The program delved into the implications of the front office and coaching staff adjustments, as well as potential moves in the free agency market.

The broader NFL offseason is also seeing movement, with teams across the league assessing their needs and potential acquisitions. ESPN has released predictions and analysis regarding coaching hires, free agents, and draft strategies for the 2026 season.

The New York Jets are also undergoing a strategic review, with a focus on three key offseason moves aimed at turning the franchise around. While the specifics of the Jets’ plans were not detailed, it highlights the widespread activity occurring across the league as teams prepare for the next season.

The coming weeks will be crucial for the Bears as they navigate free agency and the draft, aiming to build a competitive roster for the 2026 season. The changes in leadership and coaching staff, coupled with strategic roster adjustments, will shape the team’s trajectory in the coming year.