'Football Culture,' Not Results, Provide Nagy, Pace Another Chance

Bears ownership, led by George McCaskey, decided to retain the team's hierarchy based largely on the organization's 'football culture' rather than on-field results. Ted Phillips stated they have 'exactly the right football culture that all teams strive for' and argued that a 'fire everyone' mentality isn't a recipe for success.

The Bears beat teams like the Lions, Giants, Falcons, Buccaneers, Panthers, Texans, Vikings, and Jaguars, but lost to the Colts, Rams, Saints, Titans, Vikings, Packers twice, and Saints twice. They finished the season winning three of four games, largely due to a favorable schedule.

The Bears have used a long list of scapegoat coaches including Mike Martz, Mike Tice, Dowell Loggains, Mark Helfrich, Rod Marinelli, Lovie Smith, and most recently Chuck Pagano. Critics argue the franchise's leadership repeatedly brings in these coaches and refuses to hold itself accountable for the team's failures.

Ryan Pace has served as the Bears' GM for six seasons, and his misses in the draft have outweighed his hits. Despite this record, he was retained and will be tasked with drafting a franchise quarterback for the second time.

The article argues it has never been more clear that the Bears need a VP of Football Operations to help guide the franchise. The problem is that no one in the current organization has the credentials to identify and bring in the right person for that role.