Chuck Pagano was in both an enviable and difficult situation when he became the Chicago Bears defensive coordinator. It was enviable because of the talent he was inheriting. Led by Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks, Kyle Fuller, and Eddie Jackson this unit trampled most of the league. They allowed the fewest points and had the most takeaways. Nine of the 11 starters from that defense have returned. A new coach couldn’t ask for a better starting point to his new job.
What makes it difficult for Pagano is the man he’s replacing. Vic Fangio is one of the best defensive coaches in football. It’s been that way for almost a decade now. He’s fully earned the trust, respect, and love of his players after transforming them into the best defense in football. It was undoubtedly bittersweet to watch him become head coach of the Denver Broncos. While the players are grown men and understand it’s a business, it was going to be a challenge for Pagano to win them over.
So how has he gone about doing it? The man is under no illusions. He told John Mullin of NBC Sports Chicago that no amount of words will be enough.
“Coming into that situation, I did have to earn the trust and respect of that unit, just like I do now. It’s what you do day in and day out. Talk is cheap unless you walk the walk, unless you earn their respect and trust, build relationships. They’re looking to see, ‘OK, can this guy help me? Help me get to that next contract, get to a championship level?’ whatever the question may be.
It’s definitely a process. I had to do it in Baltimore at the highest level and it’s no different here. You’ve gotta earn their respect, earn their trust.”
Chuck Pagano proves again that he is a realist
Pagano may be a man who is driven by emotions and high enthusiasm, but don’t mistake that for him being immature. The guy has a full grasp of his situation. No amount of words will convince these athletes that he is good for their careers. They need to see results on the field. Thus far, the snippets have been encouraging. In the preseason his defense has produced five turnovers including two interceptions and three forced fumble. All of them with backups on the field.
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The starting defense has dominated training camp as well. So it’s clear Pagano isn’t holding them back, which is good. The question becomes can he keep them at their current heights or even push them further? There’s no way to know that for sure until they start playing actual games. Thankfully he’s experienced and proven when it comes to coaching defenses. Matt Nagy has given him full reign to do whatever he must.
If the players grow to trust him and execute what he wants to do, they should be just fine.