NFL 2011 Week 17 - Chicago Bears Dismiss GM After Poor Finish

Chicago Bears Dismiss GM After Poor Finish
Jojo Doria

Chicago, IL

The Chicago Bears fired long-time general manager Jerry Angelo following an injury-riddled and disappointing season, multiple sources reported.

According to a league insider, Chicago Bears CEO Ted Phillips relieved Angelo from the post after the general manager failed to find reliable backups during the injury-riddled season.

The Bears had a 7-3 start but found themselves spiraling out of playoff contention following the injuries to starting quarterback Jay Cutler and running back Matt Forte.

Ultimately, the Bears listed seven starters on injury reserve and missed the playoffs after reaching the NFC championship game last season.

Angelo, who concluded his 11th year as the Bears GM, has been an influential figure for the team since 2001. Under his tutelage, the Bears won three division titles and appeared in Super Bowl XLI.

The Bears also fired offensive coordinator Mike Martz after the Bears ranked 26th (188.2 yards per game) this season. Head coach Lovie Smith will keep his position.

"I will always be thankful to Jerry for hiring me to be the head coach of the Chicago Bears," Smith told ESPN about Angelo in a statement. "We had an excellent working relationship and he helped us win a lot of football games. I have tremendous respect for him and am sorry to see him go. But I also will embrace the opportunity that comes with change."