This season, the Chicago Bears have high hopes and high expectations. With the work they’ve done this offseason, the new-look Bears are looking to best their 2023 record of 7-10.
A major component of this potential success is going to come from the defensive side of the ball and new defensive coordinator Eric Washington. With a solid background and a reputation for developing effective defenses, Washington’s role is pivotal for the Bears’ success this season.
Everything You Need To Know About Chicago Bears Defensive Coordinator Eric Washington
Washington was born in Shreveport, La., and he attended Grambling State from 1989-90 and played tight end for the football team. He graduated with a degree in education in 1993.
Washington began coaching at Texas A&M as a graduate assistant for one season before joining the Ohio Bobcats as an assistant coach in 2001.
Following three seasons with the Bobcats, Washington was hired as the defensive line coach for Northwestern. It was from Northwestern in 2007 that Washington would begin his NFL journey.
How Long Has Washington Been the Bears’ Defensive Coordinator?
Washington actually began his NFL coaching experience with the Bears in 2008 as a defensive assistant. Two years later, he was promoted to be the defensive line coach for Chicago.
However, after receiving the promotion, Washington took off for Carolina a year later. He served as the Panthers‘ defensive line coach from 2011 to 2017, until he was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2018.
READ MORE: List of Current NFL Defensive Coordinators
This gained him significant interest around the league, causing him to follow former Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott to Buffalo, N.Y., where he is now the head coach. Washington received many promotions with the Bills, becoming the senior defensive assistant and then the assistant head coach a year later.
It wasn’t until 2024 that Washington reunited with the Bears as their new defensive coordinator. With years of coaching experience and familiarity with the Bears franchise, Washington should have a shorter learning curve to adapt to the NFC North.
Who Was the Defensive Coordinator Before Washington?
Before Washington, the Bears’ defensive coordinator role was held by Alan Williams. Williams’ tenure was rocky and included few notable achievements.
Williams’ record as the team’s defensive coordinator was 3-16-0, making him the least successful defensive coordinator in Bears history in terms of wins and losses.
With his extensive experience and innovative approach, Washington is well-positioned to lead the Bears’ defense to new levels of success. As the 2024 season unfolds, his leadership and expertise will be crucial in driving the team’s defensive performance and achieving their goals.