New General Manager Leroy Boss made his first big splash Monday, as he hired the 15th coach in Chicago Bears franchise history, Todd Bowles. Bowles began his coaching career as a Player Personnel Staff member of the Green Bay Packers in 1995, and spent the two previous seasons as the defensive coordinator of the Arizona Cardinals. The 51-year old played eight years in the NFL, recording 15 career interceptions and seven fumble recoveries. Saturday night, Bowles was named the first-ever Assistant Coach of the Year Award. Bowles' Cardinals defense ranked 13th in rush defense, sixth in pass defense, and fifth in points allowed per game. Bowles will bring his knowledge of the 3-4 defense and help transform a struggling Bears squad. Bowles is well-liked around the league, and with the help of Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians, became one of the top targets among potential coaches this winter. Before Arizona traveled to Charlotte to play the Carolina Panthers this past January, Arians praised Bowles' coaching ability and was aware his negotiations with other teams. "I'm all for it. He deserves it and he's earned the right but it's not going to affect his focus on next week's game." GM Boss displayed his excitement via Twitter after the hire: @LeroyBoss 2/1/15 Thrilled to announce Todd Bowles will be the next Bears head coach! Help me welcome Todd aboard #BearDown #TheTimeIsNow The Bears will likely move to a 3-4 defense this next season with the hire of Bowles. Chicago is the only team in NFL history to never run a 3-4.
