The Chicago Bears have made a significant addition to their coaching staff, hiring Eric Washington as their new defensive coordinator. This marks the first time since September that head coach Matt Eberflus will have a separate defensive coordinator on his staff.

Washington brings a wealth of experience to the Bears, having previously coached with the team from 2008-2010 under Lovie Smith. He served as the defensive line coach in 2010 alongside defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli, who mentored Eberflus. Additionally, Washington spent two years as the defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers in 2018-2019 under Ron Rivera.

Most recently, Washington served as the assistant head coach and defensive line coach for the Buffalo Bills. Under his guidance, the Bills defense ranked in the top 10 in several categories in 2023, including total yards, passing yards allowed per game, sack rate, interception rate, and points allowed per game. His track record and expertise in the area of defensive line make him an ideal addition to the Bears' coaching staff.

Known for his strong teaching abilities and attention to detail in fundamentals, Washington is considered a great communicator and a strong leader. He is expected to provide valuable assistance to the coaching staff schematically.

In a statement, Eberflus expressed his excitement about the hiring of Eric Washington, stating, "He is a great communicator with elite leadership skills and he will enhance our current defensive staff. His track record speaks for itself with coordinator experience as well as expertise in the area of defensive line."

Eberflus had been handling the defensive playcalling duties since September when the team's previous defensive coordinator, Alan Williams, resigned for conduct-related reasons. However, with the addition of Washington, Eberflus is expected to remain in his role as the play-caller.

The hiring of Washington will help alleviate the workload on Eberflus, who had been working late nights to fulfill both roles. Eberflus mentioned that he was looking for a coordinator with high character and strong motivational skills to lead the defensive room while he addresses other areas of the team.

The Bears' defense showed promise in the 2023 season, finishing 12th with 324.2 yards allowed per game. They boasted the top-ranked rushing defense, allowing just 86.4 yards per game on the ground. However, improvements are needed in their passing defense, which ranked 25th with 237.8 yards allowed per game, and their sack rate, which was the worst in the league.

Washington's arrival is expected to contribute to the continued growth and success of the Bears' defense. His appointment comes in the wake of the team's decision to retain their defensive staff and make changes on the offensive side of the ball.

The Bears have already made other coaching hires, including offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and quarterbacks coach Kerry Joseph. They still have positions to fill for running backs and wide receivers coaches. With these additions, the Bears are hoping to build an ascending coaching staff that can lead them to success in the upcoming seasons.