Chicago Bears: Possible Replacements for Mike Martz

Mike Martz's time in Chicago appears to be up, as his offense continues to have erratic production.  Martz will likely be allowed to finish the season, but without dramatic improvements the offensive coordinator won't return.  His offense does not fit in Chicago, where the organization prefers a hard-nosed running style.

Last season, Lovie Smith and Mike Tice had to basically force Martz to commit to the run.  After this adjustment, the offense seemed to find some success.  However, this season appears to be following a similar script.

Martz has almost completely abandoned the running game, only calling nine running plays against the Packers.  Matt Forte and the running attack have not done a great job of picking up yardage.  However, they have not been given the opportunity to establish the running game.  Forte is averaging only 11 carries a game.

The lack of a running game is only one of the problems.  Quarterback Jay Cutler continues to take punishing hits, as the offensive line is unable to protect.  Martz continues to call five- to seven-step drops, with mainly deep passing routes. The combination of a poor offensive line and play-calling has Cutler battered and beaten.

Even if the offense finds a way to produce, Martz will likely be looking for a new job in the offseason.  The hiring of Martz was forced, as he appeared to be the best option available.  Chicago was looking for someone to open things up and threaten the deep part of the field.  Ultimately, they were looking for a sexy hire, capable of putting points on the board.

However, the addition of Martz has only brought questions and concern.  Despite reaching the NFC Championship Game, the Bears were very inconsistent on offense.  Cutler and the offensive line were criticized the majority of the season.

After a rough start, it appears that it is time for a change.

Replacing Mike Martz: No. 5 Bob Bratkowski

Bob Bratkowski has had a successful coaching career.  He is currently Atlanta's quarterback coach, taking the position after leaving the Cincinnati Bengals.  Bratkowski was the Bengals offensive coordinator for over 10 years.  He oversaw the development of quarterback Carson Palmer while orchestrating a productive offensive attack.

During his tenure, Bratkowski ran a very balanced attack.  However, he had a tendency to attack the deep part of the field.  He made running the football more of a priority, based on a request from Marvin Lewis.

Bratkowski may like to throw the football, but could be considered conservative compared to Mike Martz.  He fits the description of what the Bears were looking for prior to hiring Martz.  However, he lacks the big name and curb appeal, which isn't necessarily a bad thing.

Replacing Mike Martz: No. 4 Jim Caldwell

If the Colts don't start playing better football, Jim Caldwell could be without a job.  There are those around the league that feel Caldwell's success as a head coach is solely because of Peyton Manning.  Thus far this season, it appears that Peyton had a lot to do with this winning record.

Caldwell has been in Indianapolis since 2002, serving mainly as the quarterbacks coach.  He has been around Peyton Manning and Tom Moore, learning a ton of information. Caldwell's connection to Tony Dungy gives him a chance to be considered by Lovie Smith and Jerry Angelo.

He would bring a wealth of offensive knowledge and the ability to fit in with the current coaching staff.  However, the Colts are a passing team known for spreading the field.  He hasn't been a part of a power running game for a long time.

Replacing Mike Martz: No. 3 Brian Daboll

Brian Daboll might not be a very popular choice, but he has talent as a play-caller.  He is currently the offensive coordinator in Miami.  He has the Dolphins offense putting up decent numbers, while improving the play of Chad Henne.  It appears that the entire Dolphins coaching staff is in hot water, likely making Daboll available after the season.

Despite receiving some poor media attention, Daboll has been a successful offensive coordinator.  Prior to taking over in Miami, he was the Browns offensive coordinator.  Daboll was running things when Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards made Pro Bowl appearances.

Daboll likes to run a balanced attack, even featuring a power running game.  He has shown the ability to get good production out of the quarterback position.  The fact that he has made Derek Anderson and Chad Henne look good is important to note.

He wouldn't be the sexy hire, but is more than capable of being successful.

Replacing Mike Martz: No. 2 Kevin Gilbride

In order to land Gilbride, the Bears have to hope the Giants fail to reach the playoffs.  Tom Coughlin and his coaching staff are perpetually on the hot seat.  Many feel that another season of missing the playoffs would result in a coaching change.

Gilbride is a very good offensive coordinator and would be a perfect fit in Chicago.  He comes with years of success, while favoring a power running attack.  Gilbride is responsible for the development of Eli Manning and would be a good coach to help Jay Cutler.

Cutler's risk-taking style and turnover issues can be compared to the play of Eli Manning.  Gilbride would be patient with Cutler, while helping him improve.  He would be a guy the town of Chicago would embrace.

Replacing Mike Martz: No 1 Greg Knapp

Greg Knapp edges Kevin Gilbride only because he is more available to take an open position. Knapp is currently the quarterbacks coach in Houston.  When looking for a new offensive coordinator, many key in on quarterback coaches.

Knapp has been around for a long time, with offensive coordinator experience in San Francisco, Atlanta, Oakland and Seattle.  His current position is allowing him to pick up some knowledge from Gary Kubiak.  Knapp appears ready to take on another offensive coordinator position.

He is known for running the West Coast offense, but is picking up some different techniques in Houston.  Knapp has had varied success, but has moved around from team to team.  He would bring a system to Chicago that would compliment Jay Cutler's skills.