Bears to Retain Declan Doyle and Al Harris for 2026 Season
The Chicago Bears’ remarkable turnaround in the 2025 season, where they surged from the bottom of the standings to claim the NFC North with an 11-6 record, has not only reinvigorated their fanbase but has also made the coaching staff highly coveted in the NFL. This development is particularly significant for head coach Ben Johnson, who navigated his first year with a young, dynamic team that secured a wild-card playoff victory over the historic Green Bay Packers. Critical to this transition was the presence of key assistants—specifically offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and defensive backs coach Al Harris—who both faced substantial interest from rival teams. However, recent reports suggest the Bears might be strategically poised to retain these integral components for the 2026 season.
Strategic Retention: A Tactical Hedge Against Future Uncertainty
While offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy has departed to take the reins at Kansas City, it appears the Bears will keep Doyle and Harris, strengthening their coaching stability. Such a decision reveals an intricate balancing act; Johnson aims to maintain continuity while fending off rival teams eager to poach his best assistants. According to El-Balad’s insights, this retention approach serves not only to shield the Bears from further upheaval but also enhances their competitive edge in an increasingly volatile league.
| Stakeholder | Before Retention | After Retention | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | Potential loss of key assistants | Stable coaching staff | Improved team cohesion and performance |
| Declan Doyle | Market demand for his talents | Return to familiar environment | Enhanced strategic focus, opportunity for growth |
| Al Harris | Links to multiple coordinator positions | Continued development as a coach | Opportunity to build on past successes with team cohesion |
| Upcoming Opponents | Uncertainty with Bears’ coaching staff | Formidable and consistent strategy | Increased difficulty in preparing for the Bears |
This coveted continuity benefits the Bears as they strive to build on their recent success. The decision to retain both Doyle and Harris aligns with a broader trend in the NFL, where the complexities of team dynamics compel franchises to maintain some level of stability. Their collective expertise proved essential during 2025’s playoff run, and investing in their continuity might yield dividends as the Bears aim for another championship run.
Localized Ripple Effects Across the NFL
The implications of this news reverberate beyond Chicago. In the U.S., successfully retaining coaches has increasingly become a marker for organizational integrity and vision within NFL franchises. For Canada’s NFL audience, the move signifies a potential movement toward longer-tenured coaching staff as Canadian followers embrace the growing popularity of the league. Meanwhile, in the UK and Australia, where investment in American football has gained traction, such stability within teams enhances the league’s narrative as it expands globally—signaling to fans that franchises can establish and maintain a legacy of success.
Projected Outcomes: What to Watch for in the Coming Weeks
As the offseason unfolds, several developments are pivotal. First, keep an eye on the Bears’ search for a new running backs coach. They need to blend new talent into their existing offensive scheme, ensuring continuity while fostering new ideas. Second, monitor any shifts in player dynamics as the Bears prepare for the draft—how might a stable coaching staff influence their choices? Lastly, observe the Bears’ performance during the pre-season. The retention of Doyle and Harris should lead to smoother coordination as the team gears up for what promises to be a challenging 2026 season.
