The Chicago Bears are currently in search of a new head coach after a disappointing season, and while traditional coaching searches dominate the conversation, there’s a more unconventional path they could consider: acquiring a head coach through trade. With a recent history of struggles and falling short in key playoff moments, the San Francisco 49ers could be ready to make a change themselves—specifically with head coach Kyle Shanahan. Could the Bears, in need of a fresh leadership direction, make a bold offer to pry Shanahan away from San Francisco?
In a recent article, Sports Illustrated’s Alan Goldsher presented an intriguing trade idea that could shake up the NFL coaching landscape. The proposal would see the Bears trading for Kyle Shanahan, sending wide receiver D.J. Moore and a 2025 second-round pick to the 49ers. Shanahan, who has built one of the most dynamic offenses in football, has led the 49ers to two Super Bowl appearances but has been unable to secure the elusive championship. While it may seem improbable for the 49ers to part ways with their offensive genius, Goldsher suggests that the Bears’ trade offer could be enticing enough to warrant consideration.
Moore, who was signed to a four-year, $110 million extension with the Bears in 2024, is coming off a solid 2023 season where he recorded over 1,300 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite a somewhat underwhelming quarterback situation in Chicago, Moore has proven himself as a reliable target. In fact, his talents could be a perfect fit for the 49ers, who may look to replace Deebo Samuel with another high-level receiver if the star wideout is moved or waived.
From the Bears’ perspective, acquiring Shanahan could be a game-changer. The team has struggled to find a consistent offensive identity, and with a promising young quarterback in Caleb Williams, they need someone who can maximize his potential. Shanahan, who has been hailed as one of the NFL’s best offensive minds, could be the perfect coach to help Williams flourish. His system, which emphasizes creativity and versatility, could give Williams the support he needs to succeed and transform the Bears into an offensive juggernaut. With Shanahan’s track record of developing quarterbacks and his ability to build explosive offenses, he could prove to be exactly what the Bears need to turn their fortunes around.
However, convincing the 49ers to part with Shanahan will not be easy. Despite two Super Bowl losses, Shanahan’s coaching resume remains strong, and his ability to consistently put the 49ers in playoff contention makes him a valuable asset. The 49ers will be reluctant to trade away their head coach without receiving a substantial return. The Bears’ offer of Moore and a second-round pick is a solid starting point, but it may require additional assets to truly pique the 49ers’ interest.
In the end, this potential trade would be a bold move by the Bears—one that could dramatically reshape the franchise’s future. While the likelihood of such a trade happening is still unclear, it’s an idea that bears watching, especially if the 49ers’ playoff struggles continue and the Bears’ search for a head coach intensifies. Shanahan’s innovative coaching could be the key to unlocking a new era of success for Chicago, and if the opportunity arises, they may be willing to make the boldest of moves.