Brown has a long list of "foundational issues" — including a "one-focus mentality" — to discuss with general manager Ryan Poles when he interviews for the permanent job.

It might seem Thomas Brown's 0-4 start as interim head coach would disqualify him in the Bears' hunt for a permanent head coach but he does have a few edges over others.

The Bears will try to sell candidates on the chance to help Williams develop into a franchise quarterback after showing promise as well as room for improvement. The former Southern California star threw for 3,541 yards with 20 touchdowns and six interceptions, but he was sacked 68 times, the most in the NFL and a franchise record.