Ryan Poles has to hire the best head coach to lead the Chicago Bears, regardless of whether that coach is an offensive play caller.

The Bears have requested permission to interview Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Interim Bears coach Thomas Brown also is in the mix, and general manager Ryan Poles said he is open to the idea of trading draft picks for the right candidate.

The Chicago Bears are conducting their search for a new head coach, and it's already been an expansive one that's included double-digit candidates. The candidates range from up-and-coming coordinators to former head coaches to offensive minds to defensive minds.