The Baltimore Ravens may soon face a significant shakeup on their coaching staff. According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the Chicago Bears have officially requested to interview Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken for their head coaching vacancy. It’s a move that makes perfect sense for the Bears, but it’s one that Ravens fans won’t be thrilled about.
The #Bears put in a request to interview #Ravens OC Todd Monken for their head coaching job, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 6, 2025
Monken has been a revelation since arriving in Baltimore, transforming the Ravens’ offense into an all-time juggernaut. His play designs and ability to adapt to Lamar Jackson’s unique skill set have taken this unit to new heights. Losing him would undoubtedly sting, but for the Bears—and for Caleb Williams, their soon-to-be second-year quarterback—this could be a franchise-altering hire.
The Ravens are fresh off a season where they ranked first in total yards and third in points scored, making Monken one of the hottest names in the coaching carousel. And frankly, who can blame the Bears for trying to pry him away?
Please don't go, Todd—even though he'd be an unreal hire for the Chicago Bear
This one hurts. Monken didn’t just elevate Baltimore’s offense; he redefined it. The Ravens became the first team in NFL history to tally 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in the same season. Lamar Jackson’s MVP campaign? Monken’s fingerprints are all over it. Derrick Henry’s seamless integration into the scheme? That’s Monken, too.
In two years, Monken turned a good offense into a terrifying one. Baltimore led the league in explosive plays and was third in points per game, averaging over 30 per outing. He’s not just a play-caller; he’s a visionary.
But for all the reasons Ravens fans will miss him, Bears fans should be ecstatic. Caleb Williams, the No. 1 pick in last year’s draft, has shown flashes of brilliance but needs the right mentor to unlock his full potential. Monken’s track record with Jackson makes him an ideal candidate to maximize Williams’ undeniable ability. The thought of Monken scheming for Williams? It’s a match that could finally bring Chicago the stability they’ve craved on offense.
Monken won’t be able to interview until after the Ravens’ Wild Card game against Pittsburgh, and even then, his focus will remain on Baltimore’s playoff push. But the possibility of losing him underscores how critical his impact has been.
If Monken does land the Bears’ job, the Ravens will face the daunting task of replacing a mastermind. Baltimore has never been shy about attracting top coaching talent, but filling Monken’s shoes will be no small feat. There are a few names to be on the lookout for: Los Angeles Rams offensive assistant and passing game specialist Nate Scheelhaase, Minnesota Vikings OC assistant/QBs coach Grant Udinksi, and even in-house Ravens QBs coach Tee Martin could get a look.
For now, Baltimore can only hope Monken stays put. But if he does leave, it’ll be with the respect and appreciation of an entire fanbase—and maybe a bit of jealousy from Chicago’s NFC North rivals.