The Chicago Bears have officially fired offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. The Bears own a 4-5 record and after scoring just three points against the New England Patriots, a change was inevitable.

In the 2024 offseason, the Bears hired Waldron. Prior to joining the Chicago staff, he was the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks from 2021-2023. The Bears surrounded the quarterback Caleb Williams with veteran players, hoping they don’t have a slow start to their careers. Despite the offseason moves, the offense struggled in the first half of the season.

The Bears have averaged 19.4 points per game this season. After their third straight loss, the Bears coach Matt Eberflus spoke to the media, acknowledging that changes needed to be made.

“We’re going to look at everything. Look at everything top to bottom and making sure we find the answers to move the ball down the field,” Eberflus said in the postgame conference call.

Two days after the loss against the Patriots, the Bears announced Waldron’s firing.

“After evaluating our entire operation, we decided it was in the best interest of our team to go in a different direction with running our offense. 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 continued success,” Eberflus said in the press release.

It is the first time since 1970 that the Bears have made a midseason offensive coordinator change. Passing coordinator Thomas Brown was promoted to replace Waldron.

There has been close scrutiny of Williams, but the Bears will continue to start their rookie quarterback. Although Williams is a rookie, he was the number one draft pick and a Heisman Trophy quarterback with The USC Trojans.

Against the Patriots, Williams was sacked a season-high nine times. He was dismissed 38 times, the most in the championship. In particular, there are injuries along the offensive line that add to the pressure on Williams.

Williams threw for 1,785 yards and nine touchdowns. The Bears rank among the lowest in the most offensive rankings. They are 24th in points scored, 30th in passing yards, 30th in total yards and 31st in yards per game.

The NFC North is a tough division in the NFL this year. Williams still needs to grow in the NFL, but the first step to helping the rookie quarterback was making a coaching change. Williams and the Bears will face the Green Bay Packers on Nov. 17 for the first game under a new coordinator.