The Chicago Bears have filled their coordinator positions by hiring Dennis Allen as the defensive coordinator and Declan Doyle as the offensive coordinator.
Who is Dennis Allen?
Allen takes over the Bears' defense following a decade with the New Orleans Saints . From 2015 to 2021, he was the defensive coordinator under head coach Sean Payton. After Payton left the Saints before the 2022 season, Allen took over as head coach. He recorded an 18-25 win-loss record before being dismissed nine games into the 2024 season.
The Saints were Allen's second attempt at being an NFL head coach. His first stint was with the Raiders from 2012 to 2014. Allen has been a highly respected defensive mind in the NFL for decades, but with two head coaching attempts behind him, the likelihood of him being hired for another opportunity is slim. This implies that the Bears can expect stability at the defensive coordinator position for the foreseeable future. Now, he just needs to complete the rest of his defensive staff.
Who is Declan Doyle?
This hire is somewhat mysterious. Doyle, 28, most recently coached tight ends for the Denver Broncos. The Bears' hiring decisions so far have numerous ties to Sean Payton, and this one is no different. Doyle began his coaching career as an offensive assistant with the Saints in 2019, later following Payton to Denver in 2023.
Doyle's background goes back to the University of Iowa, where he worked as a student assistant from 2016 to 2018. Although there isn't much information available about him, all signs indicate that he is a respected voice in the Broncos locker room and possesses a bright mind. It seems the Bears are trying to get ahead of the curve with this hire, bringing in a young and innovative mind. With Ben Johnson designing the offense and calling plays, Doyle has a chance to develop his skills and make meaningful contributions.
