Did This General Manager Really Earn an Extension?
On Friday, the Chicago Bears extended general manager Ryan Poles through the 2029 season. This move would officially confirm that head coach Ben Johnson will work alongside Poles for the next five years, granting Johnson’s request to work alongside the same GM without any doubts of being put together with a new one in a few years. In an already impactful offseason for the team, this move makes it an even greater one in terms of organizational changes that shake things up at the top. The question arises, however, did Poles deserve such a big extension?
Since joining the organization in 2022, Poles’ tenure has led the Bears to a 15-36 record. This comes alongside zero winning seasons or playoff appearances, with five different starting Bears quarterbacks in this period. Most general managers who would produce these types of results would more than likely be fired, making the extension a bit of a head-scratcher for some fans. Despite the lack of success, the Bears are taking a shot at a huge turnaround for Poles’ career thus far. The reason for this might be simpler than most fans think.
For an NFL team, it’s important to have both the GM and head coach locked up in the same or similar contract. Not only does this provide Johnson with what he asked for since the beginning of being a new head coaching candidate, but it also ensures a stable front office. This has been a particular issue in Chicago for the past decade. Poles would also make huge splashes this offseason, ranging from the NFL Draft to free agency. He would completely revamp the offensive line, setting them up to be one of the best in the league coming off a season where they were at the bottom. Poles would also draft tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Luther Burden III, both players with huge potential to become superstars in the NFL. Not only have new players been brought in, but with second-year quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze, the Bears are lining up to have an impressive season that could’ve been ruined by a potential change at GM. Not only does the re-signing of Poles bring more stability to this current talented roster, but it also gives the general manager a whole batch of confidence that he can carry through the next five seasons.
