Greg Olsen’s name has been synonymous with success in the NFL for the past two decades, first as a standout tight end with the Chicago Bears (2007-10), Carolina Panthers (2011-19), Seattle Seahawks (2020), and now as a prominent voice in broadcasting.
The three-time Pro Bowler, who retired from playing in 2020, has since found a second career in the broadcast booth, where he has earned acclaim as an award-winning analyst for Fox Sports. But now, could Olsen be eyeing an entirely new challenge: a return to the NFL in a front office or coaching role with the team that holds a special place in his heart, the Chicago Bears?
Is Greg Olsen Moving to the Front Office?
When asked on ESPN Chicago’s radio show if he’d ever be interested in running an NFL team, Olsen replied, “Yeah, there’s no question in my mind.”
"I would put my experience in NFL circles up with anybody for the last 20 years"
Greg Olsen tells @WaddleandSilvy and @TWaddle87 that he would be would consider a front office or coaching role with the Bears
Listen to the full show on the ESPN Chicago app:… pic.twitter.com/ek0EOaGORj
— ESPN Chicago (@ESPN1000) January 16, 2025
Olsen went on to add, “I would put my experience in NFL circles up with anybody for the last 20 years,” emphasizing his deep knowledge of the game and his readiness to make the transition from the broadcast booth to a more hands-on role with an NFL team.
Currently, the Bears are searching for a new head coach following a disappointing season in 2024 under Matt Eberflus. Despite starting the year with a promising 4-2 record, the team went on to lose 10 straight games, finishing with a 5-12 record.
The franchise’s coaching search has garnered attention, with Fox Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz appearing on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd” to report that the race for the Bears job has narrowed to two leading candidates: Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy.
Schultz also speculated that Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores could be in the mix if he impresses during his interview.
Is Olsen a Serious Candidate?
Even with these prominent names in play, Olsen’s interest in a coaching or front-office role with the Bears is intriguing. With his extensive NFL experience, including 14 years as a player and his time spent as a broadcaster, Olsen brings a rare perspective on both the game and the inner workings of a team.
His knowledge of team dynamics, leadership, and high football IQ make him a compelling option for any team looking to make a fresh start.
With no playoff wins since their 35-24 victory over the Seahawks in the NFC Divisional Round in 2011 and four consecutive seasons of double-digit losses, the Bears are in desperate need of a leader who can restore them to relevance. Whether he takes on a coaching role or joins the front office, Olsen’s experience, leadership, and deep ties to the team could be exactly what Chicago needs to turn things around.