The Bears formally announced the firing of head coach Matt Eberflus on Friday afternoon, issuing a press release stating that fact.

The team also announced that Thomas Brown would be interim head coach for the rest of a season now lost after losing six straight games.

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General manager Ryan Poles and team president and CEO Kevin Warren issued formal statements on the decision to move on from Eberflus, who led the team for two-plus seasons.

Here’s what they said:

RYAN POLES

“This morning, after meeting with George and Kevin, we informed Matt of our decision to move in a different direction with the leadership of our football team and the head coaching position. I thank Matt for his hard work, professionalism and dedication to our organization. We extend our gratitude for his commitment to the Chicago Bears and wish him and his family the best moving forward.”

KEVIN WARREN

“I support Ryan and the decision that was made this morning. We understand how imperative the head coaching role is for building and maintaining a championship-caliber team, leading our players and our organization. Our fans have stood by us and persevered through every challenge, and they deserve better results. Our organizational and operational structure is strong, focused, aligned and energized for the future.”