Chicago Bears fire offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, commit to QB Caleb Williams

Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Chicago Bears coach Matt Eberflus has fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, the team said Tuesday. The dismissal came less than a day after Eberflus committed to quarterback Caleb Williams, but promised "changes."

"After evaluating our entire operation, I decided that it is in the best interest of our team to move in a different direction with the leadership of our offense," Eberflus said in a news release.

"This decision was well-thought-out, one that was conducted deliberately and respectfully. I would like to thank Shane for his efforts and wish him the best moving forward."

Eberflus promoted offensive passing game coordinator Thomas Brown to replace Waldron.

"Thomas is a bright offensive mind who has experience calling plays with a collaborative mindset," Eberflus said. "I look forward to his leadership over our offensive coaching staff and his plan for our players."

The Bears totaled the third-fewest yards through the first 10 weeks of the 2024 season. They rank 24th in rushing and 30th in passing. The Bears were 4-2 through their first six games and are on a three-game losing streak.

The Bears totaled a season-low 142 yards on offense in their 19-3 loss to the New England Patriots on Sunday in Chicago.

"Everything is on the table," Eberflus told reporters Monday, when asked about changes to the Bears offense. "It's important that we look at everything and we take the time to get that done."

Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, completed 60.5% of his passes for 1,785 yards, nine scores and five interceptions through the first nine starts of his career. He failed to throw a touchdown in each of his last three starts.

Asked Monday if he plans to make a starting quarterback change, Eberflus responded, "No, Caleb is our starter."

Williams and the Bears (4-5) will host the Green Bay Packers (6-3) at 1 p.m. EST Sunday at Soldier Field.