LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Chicago Bears’ season took an unexpected turn Wednesday when defensive coordinator Alan Williams resigned for what he said were personal reasons.
“I am taking a step back to take care of my health and my family,” he said in a statement. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with the Chicago Bears, a storied NFL franchise with a rich history.”
Williams’ resignation was part of a wild day at Halas Hall, with quarterback Justin Fields indicating he is being given too much information by the coaching staff and thinking too much as a result rather than trusting his instincts. Fields said later in the locker room that his quotes were taken out of context and that he is not blaming the coaches.
Williams’ departure comes just two games into his second season with the Bears. He missed last week’s loss at Tampa Bay after working the opener against Green Bay.
Chicago-based attorney Andrew M. Stroth insisted Williams resigned for health and family reasons. He told The Associated Press neither Williams nor his family are facing any legal issues.
“They’re not facing them at the moment, and they’re not gonna be facing them,” Stroth said.
Stroth has worked with sports figures and personalities for 25 years, negotiating business partnerships for Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Michael Vick and Donovan McNabb. The list includes Cubs great Ernie Banks and several Bears, such as former coach Lovie Smith. Stroth is also a civil rights attorney.
He would not say how long he has worked with Williams.
“Coach Williams has tremendous respect for the NFL shield,” Stroth said. “He’s got tremendous respect and relationships throughout the Bears organization and the McCaskey family.”