Dallas Cowboys defensive backs coach Al Harris spent eight seasons trying to beat the Chicago Bears twice per year. Now, he intends on joining them in the quest to overcome a loaded NFC North.

On Thursday, Patrik Walker reported that Harris agreed to terms with the Chicago Bears to be the passing game coordinator for new head coach Ben Johnson.

The departure comes as Dallas faces significant uncertainty along its coaching staff.

Parting ways with head coach Mike McCarthy after a five-year tenure with three 12-win seasons opened the door for other staff members to be poached. Special teams coordinator John Fassel has already departed for the Tennessee Titans, bringing an assistant with him and headlining Dallas’ losses.

Harris, beloved in his own right, only adds to the adversity facing America’s Team.

Harris was a McCarthy hire, joining the defensive staff in 2020. In 2024, McCarthy added assistant head coach to Harris’ responsibilities, positioning him to take on a promotion elsewhere by gaining valuable experience and influence.

After a 14-year playing career that included two Pro Bowls, Harris moved to the coaching ranks in 2012, joining the Miami Dolphins as an intern. He then spent six seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, complete with three as the cornerbacks/secondary coach before a one-year stint at FAU before Dallas came calling.

Under his purview, the Cowboys watched corners Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland blossom into ball-hawking stars.

Rather than weather the storm of Dallas’ coaching search, he’ll get a fresh start in the Windy City. With the optimism of a well-regarded coaching hire and young corners like Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon, the opportunity for Harris to improve his standing is an understandable jump to make.

The Cowboys will visit the Bears at some point during the 2025 regular season.