The news around the NFL never fails to stop, and it continued on Tuesday. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the New York Jets are firing offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand.
In the last couple of days, it was revealed that Engstrand was going to be demoted from calling plays, but would stick with the Jets staff. Yet, after "many" conversations, both sides felt it was best to move on, per SNY's Connor Hughes.
And with Engstrand jumping into the pool of available coaches, the Bears would be wise to add him to their staff, especially with the connection that he and Ben Johnson share.
Bears Should Consider Bringing On Tanner Engstrand to Coaching Staff
Both Johnson and Engstrand were together in Detroit from 2020-2024. Engstrand held roles of offensive assistant, offensive quality control coach, tight ends coach & passing game coordinator with the Lions. Meanwhile, Johnson was the offensive quality control coach, tight ends coach, and passing game coordinator before getting the OC title.
As you can see, these men shared the same roles and even worked closely together when Johnson became the offensive coordinator. There aren't many available OC jobs in the league, which limits Engstrand's ability to get that role elsewhere.
For a coach looking to reshape his image, there may not be a better spot than Chicago after the year they just had. It's also worth mentioning that there could be more openings on the Bears staff after the success they just had.
They've lost Eric Bieniemy, and Declan Doyle has garnered interest from multiple teams, including the Baltimore Ravens who are set to interview him in the coming days. There could be some jobs created on this staff, especially with so many assistant and position openings caused by the major coaching movement seen this offseason, which only lends itself to the idea of Engstrand joining the Bears.
Although the Jets' offense ranked 29th in total offense (263.6) and scoring offense (17.6), Engstrand was held back from having the worst quarterback play in the league from a combo of Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, and Brady Cook. He still crafted a ton of impressive route concepts and drew up plays where playmakers were creating separation, but weren't able to get the ball thrown their way.
The opportunity to join a friend in Johnson and help this offense would be beneficial for both sides. Chicago would be bringing in another offensive mind who has a rapport with Johnson, while also keeping him away from heading back to his former team in Detroit.
As for Engstrand, being able to join a staff that has clear success is a perfect landing spot after a disastrous season in New York. That will allow him to revamp his look around the league and potentially land another OC gig in 2027 or beyond.
There's even a world where Doyle leaves for the Ravens, and the Bears need a replacement in the coming weeks. With Johnson calling the plays, Engstrand could be a wise addition.