Bears request to interview Mike Kafka for head coach

The Chicago Bears have kick started their search for a new head coach, where they've already requested interviews with some prominent candidates, including Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who's considered a top contender. But there are other offensive-minded guys being considered.

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Bears have requested to interview New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka for their vacant head coach job. Kafka is the third offensive coordinator to be requested to interview for the gig.

Kafka got his start in the NFL as quarterbacks coach with the Kansas City Chiefs (2018-19) before also receiving a promotion to passing game coordinator (2020-21). He got an opportunity to serve as offensive coordinator with the Giants, a role he's served in under head coach Brian Daboll since 2022. Kafka was promoted to assistant head coach, while remaining offensive coordinator, this year.

While Kafka has coached a struggling Giants offense, he's still widely considered to be a respected offensive mind, so it makes sense that the Bears would take the time to talk to him about the opening as developing quarterback Caleb Williams is paramount. Not to mention, there's a local connection with Kafka being from the Chicago area and attending Northwestern, that general manager Ryan Poles loves.

The Bears have now requested interviews with five assistant coaches: Johnson, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, Arizona Cardinals Drew Petzing and Kafka. General manager Ryan Poles also confirmed Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown will get a formal interview for the permanent role.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears request to interview Mike Kafka for head coach