Eagles Request Interview with Bears OC Declan Doyle for Vacant Role

The Philadelphia Eagles have formally requested to interview Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle for their vacant offensive coordinator position, a move that signals a significant step in the Eagles’ ongoing search for new offensive leadership. The request, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on January 22, 2026, places Doyle, a rapidly ascending figure in NFL coaching circles, firmly in contention for one of the league’s most scrutinized offensive roles.

Doyle’s potential departure from Chicago would represent another notable shift in the dynamic NFL offseason coaching carousel. While serving as the Bears’ offensive coordinator, it is important to note that head coach Ben Johnson has primarily handled the play-calling duties for the No. 2 seeded team. This distinction is crucial as teams evaluate Doyle’s direct impact and strategic contributions.

Doyle’s Ascending Coaching Trajectory

Declan Doyle’s career trajectory underscores why he is considered a promising candidate for the Eagles. Before joining Ben Johnson’s staff in Chicago, Doyle spent the 2023-2024 seasons as the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos. His tenure in Denver provided him with valuable experience in a different offensive scheme and under varying leadership structures, contributing to his well-rounded understanding of NFL offenses.

Prior to his time with the Broncos, Doyle made a significant impact as an offensive assistant with the New Orleans Saints from 2019 to 2022. During his four seasons with the Saints, the team achieved an impressive 41-25 (.621) record, securing NFC South Division titles in his first two years. This period was marked by offensive prowess, with eight Saints players collectively earning 12 Pro Bowl selections. Doyle’s involvement in an offense that consistently produced Pro Bowl talent highlights his capacity to contribute to high-performing units and develop individual players.

The Eagles’ Intensive Search for Offensive Leadership

The Philadelphia Eagles are now two weeks into their search for a new offensive coordinator, a process initiated after a disappointing end to their previous season. The urgency to find a leader who can revitalize their offensive scheme and maximize their talented roster is paramount. The request to interview Doyle suggests the Eagles are looking for a coach with a strong background in developing offensive talent and a fresh perspective, even if he hasn’t been the primary play-caller in his most recent role.

The Eagles’ decision to target Doyle, despite his relatively brief stint as an offensive coordinator where he wasn’t the primary play-caller, indicates a belief in his underlying strategic acumen and his ability to contribute to a successful offensive system. His experience with both a veteran-laden Saints team and a rebuilding Broncos squad offers a diverse set of experiences that could appeal to the Eagles’ leadership.

Broader NFL Coaching Movements

Doyle’s interview request comes amidst a flurry of coaching staff changes across the NFL. The Chicago Bears, in particular, have seen several movements within their coaching and front office personnel this offseason. Running backs coach Eric Bieniemy, for instance, is returning to the Kansas City Chiefs to serve as their offensive coordinator, as reported by Windy City Gridiron. This move underscores the competitive nature of securing top coaching talent.

Furthermore, Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien confirmed that his offensive coordinator, Will Lawing, is departing the school to join the Bears’ staff. Lawing, who has a long history of coaching with O’Brien, is expected to bring his extensive experience, particularly with tight ends, to Chicago. These movements illustrate the constant reshuffling of personnel as teams strive to gain a competitive edge.

Other Bears staff members are also drawing interest from around the league. Defensive backs/passing game coordinator Al Harris has interviewed for defensive coordinator positions with both the Green Bay Packers and the Washington Commanders, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Additionally, Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham was requested for an interview by the Atlanta Falcons for their general manager position, though the nuances of the Rooney Rule regarding draft pick compensation would not apply in this specific scenario due to the structure of the Falcons’ front office.

These widespread coaching and front office changes highlight a league-wide effort to adapt and innovate, with teams actively seeking individuals who can bring new ideas and proven track records of success to their organizations. The Eagles’ pursuit of Declan Doyle fits squarely within this broader trend of strategic personnel acquisition.

The Eagles’ decision to interview Declan Doyle, a coach who has primarily served as an offensive assistant and position coach despite holding an OC title, signals a clear intent to prioritize underlying talent development and strategic contributions over immediate play-calling experience in their search for a new offensive coordinator. This approach suggests a focus on a collaborative offensive system where a coordinator’s ability to innovate and foster growth within the coaching staff and player roster is highly valued.