Bears defensive coordinator Alan Williams resigned on Wednesday, he announced in a statement.
“I am taking a step back to take care of my health and family,” Williams said. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with the Chicago Bears, a storied NFL franchise with a rich history. The McCaskey family is first-class and second to none.”
Williams, 53, has been away from the team since last week due to personal reasons and he did not coach in the Bears game vs. the Buccaneers on Sunday. He is a longtime NFL defensive assistant, coaching for the Colts, Vikings and Lions since 2002 before joining Bears head coach Matt Eberflus in Chicago last season.
“I would also like to thank Coach Matt Eberflus and General Manager Ryan Poles for giving me the opportunity to come to Chicago,” Williams continued in the statement. “I would also like to thank President Kevin Warren, the coaches and players of which I value the relationships and camaraderie. I value the NFL shield and all that it stands for and after taking some time to address my health, I plan to come back and coach again.”
With Williams now out, Eberflus is expected to continue calling defensive plays, according to CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones.