10 potenital defensive coordinators for Chicago Bears

5. Teryl Austin

Austin was the Lions defensive coordinator from 2014-2017. He then was the Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator before heading to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he stands as a senior defensive assistant and secondary coach.

Pros: This offseason many debated Minkah Fitzpatrick and Eddie Jackson. After 2020, it is no debate. Jackson is not far behind, Minkah, and Fitzpatrick has missed his share of tackles as well.

However, the way the Steelers let Fitzpatrick roam, and play the robber role is freer than Jackson, who plays more as just one of two safeties in a scheme. Austin was brought in to impact the Steelers secondary and did so. He also coached the Lions defense during their peak. His resume is strong.

Cons: There is a lot of speculation about the future of Pittsburgh, but as a senior defensive assistant, it may be hard to pry him from that franchise, and his role next to Mike Tomlin. Beyond that, he may be better off as just that. He had success as a coordinator but was let go in his past two spots. He may help the defense with tidbits but is not quite the controller.