The Chicago Bears have cast a wide net in their head coaching search, but this under-the-radar candidate was recently listed as an ideal fit for the job.

With the regular season in the rearview mirror, the Chicago Bears have turned their focus toward a coaching search that will be one of the most significant processes in team history. The Bears have heavy lifting ahead to close the gap on three division rivals who qualified for the playoffs.

Is Marcus Freeman a candidate for the Chicago Bears opening? Here's everything to know about the NFL rumors surrounding Notre Dame's head coach:

Who has interviewed for the Bears head coach? Chicago has interviewed nine candidates for their head coaching vacancy, including Mike Vrabel, who was hired as the New England Patr

Other teams seem to be moving much more quickly than the Bears. The sooner the Bears sort out their finalists, the better.

Here's how we sort the Chicago Bears' coaching candidates, from the best options to the ones we wonder if they have what it takes.

Should the Chicago Bears feel confident about hiring a top offensive coordinator to take over their head coaching job?

Former Cal linebacker Ron Rivera is one of a number of people ESPN listed on Wednesday as candidates for the Chicago Bears' vacant head coaching position. Former Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy is the biggest name on the long list of possibilities,