Two weeks ago, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that McCarthy "could set his sights on Chicago." It was apparently mutual after the Bears requested an interview with McCarthy while he was still under contract by the Cowboys, who denied the request. After Dallas and McCarthy decided to part ways, it didn't take long for Chicago to set up an interview.

With the regular season in the rearview mirror, the Chicago Bears have turned their focus toward a coaching search that will be one of the most significant processes in team history. The Bears have heavy lifting ahead to close the gap on three division rivals who qualified for the playoffs.