In a bold move signaling dissatisfaction with their offensive performance, the Chicago Bears have severed ties with their offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. This decision comes just 11 months after they dismissed his predecessor, Luke Getsy. The Bears' offensive struggles have been glaring, notably going 23 consecutive drives without scoring a touchdown. It's a pattern they hoped to change by earlier bringing in Waldron, but with similar results, the pressure for a restructure grew inevitable.
The struggles of the Bears’ offense present a pressing concern, compelling the team's management to take decisive action. Such decisions are part of the broader trend within the Bears organization to find a formula that could breathe new life into their ailing offense. Previously, Luke Getsy was let go in January after a fleeting stint, having barely warmed his seat following a similarly brief tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders where he departed less than ten days before his Chicago firing.
Meanwhile, on Monday Night Football, the Miami Dolphins showcased their mettle with a win over the Los Angeles Rams, posting a final score of 23-15. The Dolphins' defense delivered an aggressive performance, sacking the Rams' quarterback Matthew Stafford four times. Stafford's prime-time woes continued, as his record dropped to an unenviable 12-21. In contrast, Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa demonstrated his potential, completing 11 of 13 passes for 120 yards and notching a touchdown in the second half. This victory lifted the Dolphins' season record to 3-6, a position that holds slim hopes for playoff contention, considering only four teams in NFL history have advanced to the playoffs after starting a season at 2-6.
In league power dynamics, the Kansas City Chiefs maintain their hold at the summit of the latest Prisco's Week 11 Power Rankings, while the Pittsburgh Steelers made a noteworthy entrance into the top five. The Philadelphia Eagles ascended from ninth to sixth, signaling their ongoing improvement. Notably, the Miami Dolphins moved up from 23rd to 20th following their latest triumph, whereas the Washington Commanders experienced a precipitous drop from fourth to 10th. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Raiders find themselves anchored at the bottom, struggling to find an upward trajectory.
Beyond the field, the NFL is actively exploring global horizons. Talks are underway to potentially stage a game in Australia by 2026. As NFL columnist Jonathan Jones optimistically notes, "Australia entices the NFL for several reasons. There is a vibrant sports scene there, and there's no language barrier." He further differentiates this venture from the league’s previous European expansions, emphasizing that "no other major American sports league has penetrated the market." This consideration is part of a broader international vision with plans already laid out for games in 2025 in countries like London, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, and Ireland.
In roster developments, the Pittsburgh Steelers made a strategic acquisition by signing the experienced returner Jamal Agnew to their practice squad. Agnew, an All-Pro professional, brings six return touchdowns to his career portfolio. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys face a setback as their quarterback Dak Prescott is scheduled to undergo surgery on his injured hamstring, a potential blow to their offensive capabilities.
In another roster shuffle, the Seattle Seahawks waived their leading tackler, linebacker Tyrel Dodson. Such decisions underscore the high stakes and ruthless pace at which teams seek to optimize performance mid-season.
With these diverse and dynamic developments, the NFL landscape continues to intrigue, from strategic personnel changes to ambitious international expansion plans, reminding fans and enthusiasts of the ever-evolving nature of the sport. As teams recalibrate and restrategize, the second half of the season promises compelling narratives and thrilling encounters.