LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — Bears defensive coordinator Alan Williams has resigned from his position, the team said Wednesday afternoon.
Williams released a statement in which he cited his own health and family as the reasons for his resignation.
"It is with great regret that I tender my resignation as the defensive coordinator of the Chicago Bears football club effective immediately," Williams said in a statement. "I am taking a step back to take care of my health and my family. I appreciate the opportunity to work with the Chicago Bears, a storied NFL franchise with a rich history. The McCaskey family is first-class and second to none. I would also like to thank coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles for giving me the opportunity to come to Chicago. I would also like to thank president Kevin Warren, the coaches and players of which I value the relationships and camaraderie.
"I value the NFL shield and all that it stands for and after taking some time to address my health, I plan to come back and coach again."
The Bears haven't named an interim defensive coordinator. Coach Matt Eberflus served as the team's defensive play-caller in Chicago's 27-17 loss at Tampa Bay on Sunday after Williams left the team last week. Eberflus indicated earlier Wednesday that he plans to continue with those responsibilities. Eberflus was the Colts' defensive coordinator from 2018-'21.
Eberflus hasn't been made available for comment since Williams' resignation. Prior to practice Wednesday, he declined to discuss Williams' absence or whether he'd return to his role.
Williams, 53, had been the Bears’ defensive coordinator since 2022, when he joined Eberflus in Chicago. Eberflus and Williams had worked together in Indianapolis from 2018-’21 prior to that. Williams had worked for six different teams since he entered the NFL coaching ranks in 2001.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.