Like Thomas Jones and Nathan Vasher, he has two years left on his contract. His salary–the lowest in the NFL–seemingly doesn’t reflect his recent success.
Did Lovie Smith, the reigning NFL Coach of the Year, think about blowing off organized team activities like Jones, Vasher and Lance Briggs did?
“It never crossed my mind,” Smith said, laughing. “Once the team is out here, I want to be part of it.
“You know what happens when you miss a day? You find out that practice goes on without you. I don’t want them to get too comfortable with me not being here. You will see me here every day, I promise you.”
Extension talk surfaced late last season as Smith guided the Bears to a first-round bye in the playoffs. Team President Ted Phillips told the Tribune in late March he wants to see another good year from Smith before discussing a new deal.
At $1.35 million per season, Smith will make less than NFC North counterparts Brad Childress, Rod Marinelli and Mike McCarthy, all first-time head coaches.
“I have a contract I signed when I got here,” Smith said. “My contract is no issue. I’m just glad to be the head coach of the Chicago Bears every day I come into work.”
Extra points
The court date to set a preliminary hearing for an assault charge on cornerback Ricky Manning Jr. was pushed from Wednesday to July 6. Manning has pleaded not guilty to the felony charge. “I’m not really worried about the charge,” Manning said. . . . Smith said defensive lineman Tank Johnson, safety Brandon McGowan and fullback Bryan Johnson likely wouldn’t be healthy for the start of training camp. . . . Smith took his coaching staff to Wednesday night’s White Sox-Cardinals game. . . . Several veterans, including Brian Urlacher, were excused from Wednesday’s workout.
