Alan

Williams

“Williams was not involved in any criminal activity,” Schefter reports. “But the Bears’ human resources department was part of the process that culminated in his abrupt resignation Wednesday.” There were rumors to this effect, but they were more sensational, involving federal authorities. This appears more like a workplace issue but obviously a troubling one. Williams had claimed he was “taking a step back to take care of my health and family.” It sounds like we probably have not heard the end of this story.

Williams was away from the team on Sunday as he dealt with a personal matter, and it appears that same personal matter will keep him away from the Bears full-time. Williams released a statement saying, “I am taking a step back to take care of my health and family. ... I value the NFL shield and all that it stands for and after taking some time to address my health, I plan to come back and coach again.” Coach Matt Eberflus is expected to continue to call defensive plays for the time being.

Head coach Matt Eberflus said he will be in charge of calling the defensive plays on Sunday when the Bears take on the Buccaneers. Eberflus also declined to give a timeline for when we could expect to see Williams back on the sideline. A lifelong defensive coach, Eberflus should have no trouble calling plays on Sunday. The concern for the Bears defense remains the overall talent on the field.

Williams will follow Matt Eberflus to Chicago after the two worked together for four years in Indianapolis. Williams was also a candidate to replace Eberflus as the Colts’ next defensive coordinator. He has over 20 years of experience in the NFL including two seasons as the Vikings’ defensive coordinator. Eberflus and Williams will attempt to recalibrate Chicago’s defense after the squad put together a disappointing season in 2021.

It had already been reported that new Bears coach Matt Eberflus could be eyeing up Williams to join him in Chicago. Williams is also reportedly a candidate to replace Eberflus in Indy. 52-year-old Williams has two decades of NFL coaching experience, including two as a coordinator.

Breer also reports that Williams is a candidate to follow Eberflus to Chicago. It appears both Williams and LBs coach Dave Borgonzi could be Windy City bound. 52-year-old Williams has been an NFL assistant since 2001, and coordinated Minnesota’s defense in 2012-13.