Grin and Bear It: Lovie Staying, Turner Gone (UPDATED)

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Jan 5, 2010 4:40PM

It's not the news most Bears fans wanted to hear today. The Chicago Bears are scheduled to hold a press conference this afternoon at 2 p.m. to announce a shake up in the coaching staff but one of those departing will not be head coach Lovie Smith, according to a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter. So we guess the buy-out was too rich for the McCaskeys' blood? Instead, it looks like Lovie will remain in charge but look for a major shake-up amongst the assistants; tight ends coach Rob Boras has already been fired according to the ESPN report. Meanwhile, the Tribune reports a league source as saying the news is equally grim for offensive coordinator Ron Turner who has also been fired. Also getting the boot were offensive line coach Harry Hiestand and quarterbacks coach Pep Hamilton.

The Trib also reports Rod Marinelli will officially may become the team's new defensive coordinator, a position that Smith had been filling this season. But another source indicated the team may look outside the organization to fill this role. Overall, the Bears are 52-44 under Smith, including 2-2 in the playoffs and an appearance in Super Bowl XLI.

Benjy will chime in after the press conference with more information and analysis.