If the Chicago Bears head coach plan ever involved Vic Fangio, then why didn’t they choose to promote him during the season? GM Ryan Pace later insisted that was never the plan. If this was the case than it doesn’t make much sense for them to conduct a head coach interview with Fangio after John Fox was fired. At least that’s the logical assumption.
Of course this would mean head coaching interviews are only used for one thing. Is it not logical that the Bears might’ve wanted to use this official opportunity to meet with Fangio as a chance to get to know him better and also talk? It would seem this was indeed the plan for Pace. While it appears head coach was out of the question, the young GM may have been able to sway the veteran defensive coordinator towards possibly staying in Chicago.
*IF* the #Bears retain DC Vic Fangio, you can thank the HC interview on Wednesday for that.
Was told not only did the interview go well but it allowed Pace & Fangio to get a better long-term feel for each other, which could help convince Fangio to stay.
— Aaron Leming (@AaronLemingNFL) January 6, 2018
It’s been clear for the past week that the Bears want Fangio to stay. The 59-year old did a tremendous job with the defense in 2017. It finished the year ninth in points allowed and 10th in total defense. This despite missing most of their top pass rushers including Leonard Floyd for a good chunk of the season. Still, the question lingers on.
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Did the Chicago Bears head coach ploy work on Fangio enough?
Thus far the Bears have maintained their message on Fangio. They denied the Cincinnati Bengals permission to interview him for their vacant defensive coordinator position. At the same time they’re working against the clock. Fangio’s contract will expire on Tuesday, January 9th. This means if the Bears are going to get something done, it probably has to be soon. Are they close at all?
I spoke with a source who’s kept tabs on the situation. Information is still minimal but there was progress.
“The Bears and Fangio are in “serious” talks. It’s not done yet. Vic may want to test free agency.”
The biggest fear at this point for Bears fans is that Fangio leaves to fill the vacant defensive coordinator position with the Green Bay Packers. That said there are several other teams reportedly in the hunt. This will come down to whomever the Bears agree to hire as head coach and of course money. Odds are information either way on the subject will come out within the next 24-48 hours.
If nothing else it’s clear the Bears are making progress.
