Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen has signed a significant extension with the team, positioning him as one of the highest-paid coordinators in the NFL. Initially considered a top candidate for the Jacksonville Jaguars' head coaching position, Coen withdrew his candidacy to remain with the Buccaneers. However, after a day, he reversed his decision and accepted the Jaguars' offer, following the dismissal of general manager Trent Baalke. The Jaguars’ owner, Shad Khan, expressed confidence in Coen to lead the team towards success, especially in developing quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who struggled under previous coaching staff.

The 2024 season proved disheartening for the Chicago Bears, concluding with a disappointing 5-12 record. The franchise's high hopes for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams turned into a tumultuous journey, prompting the search for a new head coach to guide the team forward. Central to the upcoming offseason will be the challenge of managing free agency, with thirteen players on the verge of unrestricted free agency. General Manager Ryan Poles faces critical decisions on which of these players to prioritize.

Among the top candidates for re-signing is veteran receiver Keenan Allen. Although he may not be at his peak, Allen's experience could provide stability as Williams continues to develop. Offensive lineman Teven Jenkins also represents a significant consideration despite his injury concerns. If Jenkins can agree to a performance-based contract, he could be valuable. Furthermore, long snapper Patrick Scales, approaching his 37th birthday, should remain a priority given his role in the team's special teams.

Other players worthy of a re-signing effort include DeAndre Carter, who offers special teams versatility, and Darrell Taylor, who has shown promise as a situational pass rusher since joining the Bears. Running back Travis Homer also adds depth, particularly given the fragility often seen in the position.

On the other hand, several players may be let go, including Coleman Shelton and Larry Borom, who have failed to impress. Veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis, once a stabilizing presence, may also be deemed expendable as younger leaders emerge. The Bears face a pivotal offseason, requiring strategic choices to build a more competitive team.

The Chicago Bears, with a disappointing 4-12 record, face off against the Green Bay Packers, who are aiming for a playoff spot with an 11-5 record. This match marks a crucial moment for the Bears, who are striving to break a streak of 11 consecutive losses against their rivals. The last victory for Chicago over Green Bay on the road dates back to 2015, and with playoff implications for the Packers, the Bears are in a challenging position.

The Packers are heavily favored, entering the game as 10-point favorites, and a win would solidify their chances of clinching the 7th seed in the playoffs. If successful, they would face the Philadelphia Eagles in a rematch after a close game earlier in the season. The odds reflect the Packers' strong performance, with a moneyline of -550 against the Bears' +380.

As the game approaches, analysts are considering the strategies of both teams. The Packers are expected to lean on their run game, which has been effective this season, as they aim to control the pace and minimize risks. Key players for both teams are dealing with injuries, adding another layer of uncertainty as they prepare for this pivotal matchup.

The Detroit Lions have had to seek external solutions for their pass rush due to injuries to key players. General manager Brad Holmes made strategic moves by signing Al-Quadin Muhammad and trading for Za'Darius Smith, who have both made significant contributions alongside teammates.

In a recent Thanksgiving victory, this revamped pass rush recorded 4.5 sacks and pressured rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, showcasing their ability to disrupt the opposing offense.

Al-Quadin Muhammad secured his first sack as a Lion, demonstrating relentless pursuit and physicality. Za'Darius Smith not only recorded 1.5 sacks but also created nine pressures, proving his worth since joining the team. DJ Reader added two sacks, highlighting the Lions' effective interior rush despite injuries.

The Chicago Bears faced another disappointing loss, extending their losing streak to six games with a 23-20 defeat against the Detroit Lions. Despite a strong second half led by Caleb Williams, poor clock management during the final drive thwarted their chance for a comeback.

After a promising drive, a penalty and a crucial sack left the Bears scrambling. Coach Matt Eberflus opted not to use a timeout, aiming to set up a field-goal attempt, but the strategy backfired as the clock ran out. Williams' last-minute pass attempt fell incomplete, sealing the Bears' fate.