Bears fire running backs coach David Walker, HR was allegedly involved
It is reportedly the second time this season human resources was involved in a coach leaving the team
The Chicago Bears fired running backs coach David Walker on Wednesday, head coach Matt Eberflus confirmed. The team's human resources department was allegedly involved in the decision, per The Athletic.
Walker was hired by the Bears in 2022 as part of Eberflus' coaching staff. Walker was brought on board just a few weeks after Eberflus' hiring was announced. Walker served as a running backs coach with the Indianapolis Colts — where Eberflus previously coached — from 2011-14. Walker was also a running backs coach with the Detroit Lions from 2016-18.
The firing marks the second time this season human resources was allegedly involved in a Bears coach leaving the team. Defensive coordinator Alan Williams abruptly resigned in September. The Bears never fully explained the reason for his departure, though there were reports human resources played a role in the move and that Williams resigned due to "inappropriate activity."
Walker was reportedly fired due to his "behavior in the workplace," according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN. Walker's firing and Williams' resignation are reportedly not related, per ESPN.
Eberflus said Wednesday that Walker was fired because he did not meet the standards of the organization.
Matt Eberflus announces the firing of David Walker: "We have standards to uphold as an organization, both on and off the field, and those standards were not met."
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) November 1, 2023
Eberflus called the move disappointing, and said the Bears have an "outstanding" culture. He did not reveal additional details about Walker's firing.
