Bears HC Matt Eberflus will continue to call defensive plays

The Chicago Bears have a new defensive coordinator in Eric Washington, who was officially introduced during a press conference, but some things will remain the same on defense.

Head coach Matt Eberflus told reporters Thursday that he will continue to call defensive plays during the 2024 season. Eberflus assumed playcalling duties in Week 3 of last season after Alan Williams gave his resignation.

The defense made huge strides in the second half of the season with the addition of Montez Sweat and Eberflus at the helm, where they were a top-10 unit to close out the year.

Washington mentioned he’s called plays in the past and would like to do it again, but that’s not expected to happen in 2024. Washington did share praise for Eberflus as a playcaller.

“He’s situational. He knows his priorities,” Washington said. “He knows his players and the values. How to put players in the best position possible.”

Washington, who got his start with the Bears as a defensive assistant in 2008, brings 16 years of NFL coaching experience to the table and is ready to work with a talented group looking to ascend into a top-10 unit.

Follow The Bears Wire Podcast:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts