The Miami Dolphins have experienced ongoing challenges with defensive consistency during Mike McDaniel’s tenure as head coach. Now, they may face yet another shake-up on the defensive side if current defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver lands a head coaching job in the coming weeks.
According to Dianna Russini, senior reporter for The Athletic, Weaver has emerged as a serious candidate for the Chicago Bears’ vacant head coaching position. In her recent column, Russini highlighted Weaver as a name drawing particular attention from Bears general manager Ryan Poles. Alongside Weaver, Poles is reportedly researching prominent coaching figures like Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, Detroit Lions coordinators Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores, and Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. However, Russini notes that Weaver has garnered special consideration from the Bears.
Weaver’s defensive unit has been a bright spot for Miami in 2024. Under his guidance, the Dolphins rank third in the NFL for yards allowed per game (310.6) and eighth in points allowed per game (20.8). This performance has made Weaver a rising star in coaching circles, earning him recognition as one of the league’s top defensive minds. When asked earlier this week about the possibility of interviewing for head coaching roles, Weaver remained focused on the immediate task at hand.
“I’m so focused right now on just controlling what we can control, beating the Jets, and praying that we get the help we need in order to continue this run,” Weaver said. “Because I think if we can get in, if we’re blessed with that opportunity, we can make some noise.”
The Bears, on the other hand, are in dire need of new leadership. Following the firing of head coach Matt Eberflus in late November, the team has spiraled, losing 10 consecutive games after starting the season 4-2. With rookie quarterback Caleb Williams leading a struggling offense that averaged just 17.9 points per game, Chicago’s next head coaching decision is critical.
Weaver, who boasts 13 years of coaching experience, including two years as the assistant head coach for the Baltimore Ravens, would bring defensive stability to a Bears team that desperately needs it. However, the hiring process raises an intriguing question: Will Chicago prioritize a defensive specialist like Weaver, or will they opt for a head coach with an offensive background to help unlock the potential of their young quarterback?
As the Bears weigh their options, the spotlight remains on Weaver, whose future could significantly impact both Miami’s defensive continuity and Chicago’s long-term prospects.
