By this point, everyone knows how disastrous the Chicago Bears' 2024 season was. From the top down, the coaching was an issue and that includes special teams. So, some Bears fans were surprised when new head coach Ben Johnson decided to retain special teams coordinator Richard Hightower.
Despite his being well-liked, it seemed like the writing was on the wall for Hightower. Last season, the Bears had a bevy of special teams mistakes, including blocked field goals and poor kick coverage. However, with new coaching, Bears fans were hoping Hightower could turn the special teams unit around.
Unfortunately, that turned out to be the exact opposite of what happened against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1, and Hightower needs to be on the hot seat.
Bears ST Coordinator Richard Hightower Enters Week 2 On the Hot Seat
On Monday night, the Bears' special teams struggled in every facet. It started with kick coverage, as they allowed 133 yards on kickoff returns and 68 yards on punt returns. This proved that the preseason struggles in that area weren't just a case of backups being unprepared.
Moreover, kicker Cairo Santos made two major mistakes. While Santos' performance doesn't have a one-to-one correlation with Hightower, he should know the kicker's limitations and plan around that. If needed, he should also be the one leading the charge to replace Santos.
On top of that, the consistent consistent penetration the Bears were allowing on field goals and punts led to Minnesota eventually getting their hands on one with a punt block. Though it wasn't counted as an official block since the ball rolled forward, it was a clear sign that the issue from last season hasn't been fixed.
This was such an issue that Packers special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia promised Packers fans they would block a field goal the first time the two teams met last season. Bisaccia held true to that promise as Green Bay blocked Chicago's game-winning field goal attempt in Week 12.
Given that poor special teams execution isn't a new thing, it's hard to blame the players. As a result, the blame falls on the shoulders of Hightower. That said, if the special teams unit continues to struggle over the next couple of weeks, fans will be begging for a change.
Hopefully, Johnson and the Bears won't be forced to make a change, but the new head coach has already proven he doesn't put up with mediocrity.