Chicago Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower has been nominated to participate in the 2023 Coach Accelerator program, which will be conducted at the Spring League Meeting in Minneapolis.
The Coach Accelerator program aims to increase exposure between owners, executives, and diverse coaching talent, providing ample opportunity to develop and build upon their relationships. This year, there was a change to the nomination process, which allowed clubs to nominate those who reside outside of their organization.
The 40 participants in this year’s program, including Hightower, are expected to be considered for a head coach position in the future.
“In the year since its inception, we’ve been encouraged by the positive response to the Accelerator from both club owners and participants,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.”We look forward to continuing to build on an incredible program that supports diverse talent.”
Hightower joined Matt Eberflus’ coaching staff last offseason as the team’s special teams coordinator. Hightower has 16 years of NFL coaching experience, including with the Houston Texans (2006-08), Washington Commanders (2010-13), Cleveland Browns (2014), San Francisco 49ers (2015; 2017-21) and Bears (2016, 2022-present).
Former Bears defensive coordinator — and current Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator — Sean Desai is also one of the participants in the program.
