NEWSLETTER
We’re all familiar with how players, coaches, and general managers get replaced. But while that’s happened several times for the Bears over during the last two decades, it’s worth pointing out that Chicago has employed the same team president, Ted Phillips, since 1999. That brings us to ask how does one replace an active team president? Particularly, one who’s overseen an operation that hasn’t lived up to its own standards throughout his tenure.
Well, we might not even get to that point if one rumor comes to fruition.
From ESPN 1000’s David Kaplan on Monday morning’s show:
“I got a text from a good friend who’s wildly connected in that building known as Halas Hall. You know what he said to me? I’m gonna throw it out there. I’m not gonna throw his name out there, but this guy has given me tips before. He texted me and said: “You didn’t get this from me, don’t be shocked if Ted Phillips announces he’s retiring at the end of the season.” Not reporting it’s a done deal, I’m just telling you that someone who’s been a reliable source to me said he believes Ted might retire.
To be clear, this isn’t Kaplan reporting that Bears President Ted Phillips is likely to retire at the end of this season. Nor is it Kaplan saying Phillips is already definitely considering retiring at year’s end. Instead, it’s Kaplan relaying from a source to not be surprised if Phillips steps away from his position when the 2020 campaign comes to a close. That’s not nothing. But I don’t want to blow it out of proportion either.
Changes at Halas Hall are often focused on players, coaches, and front office types. But in 2020, it’s becoming clear that wide-spread organizational change is necessary. And with that being said, we’re now seeing Phillips joins General Manager Ryan Pace and Head Coach Matt Nagy on the proverbial hot seat. It was only a matter of time before we got to that point. Now, whether changes are made is to be determined. Although, it’s becoming clearer that wholesale changes could (and probably should) begin with Phillips.
