It was a surprise when Matt Nagy chose to make Sean Desai the new Chicago Bears defensive coordinator. As an offensive head coach, the normal procedure would be to hire an experienced guy to run the defense. That is why he worked to keep Vic Fangio and then brought in Chuck Pagano a year later. So Desai represented a significant departure since he’d only served two years as a position coach before getting the job.
While it may appear the decision came out of left field, the truth is considerably different. From the way Nagy spoke at his most recent press conference on Sunday? This is something he’s had in his mind going back two years. In 2019, Fangio left for the Denver Broncos. What people didn’t know is he’d hoped to bring Desai with him as an assistant coach. Nagy chose to block the move. While he couldn’t promise anything right away, the head coach made it clear to the young assistant that he would get an opportunity if the job opened up again in the future.
Sure enough, Pagano retired this offseason. This time Desai was ready.
This is another reminder of how good Nagy is at keeping things in the back of his mind. At planning ahead for things. Remember he was told by Ohio State coach Ryan Day that Justin Fields was a generational talent way back at the beginning of 2020. Nagy filed that away. When the time for a QB change arrived, he made sure to do his homework on Fields. Soon the entire Bears organization became sold. Now he’s their future quarterback.
The same goes for Desai. Matt Nagy saw something in the young assistant. His passion for the game, his intelligence, his work ethic, and his attention to detail. Those are all hallmarks of a quality coordinator and maybe even a future head coach. Nagy wanted to keep that close. Was it the right choice? Bears fans are about to find out.
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Matt Nagy is doing everything he can to get Desai ready
That includes finding creative ways to test him during practices. One such method is called a “play-it-out” series. That is where Nagy doesn’t script things, forcing Desai and his staff to adjust to whatever personnel the offense deploys. It’s a great way to see how the young coordinator adjusts to situations and how he is able to communicate. Something that several opponents will do during the season.
Thus far it seems Desai has handled things well. His defense is performing well in practice, consistently owning the trenches and forcing turnovers. This despite a number of injuries suffered to their starters. The common traits that stand out most with the 38-year old are his energy, competitiveness, and attention to detail. Players are operating with a sense of urgency.
Something that seemed to be missing at times last season.
Matt Nagy continues to prove himself as a coach who is willing to hand out opportunities. Not just to players but to coaches as well. Show the desire to work hard and make the Chicago Bears a winner? He’ll find a place for you on the team. Just like his mentor Andy Reid has done for years. Desai no doubt hopes to reward that confidence.
