Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune is reporting that the Chicago Bears have not ruled out making current defensive line coach and assistant head coach Rod Marinelli their defensive coordinator.

“Whatever Lovie needs, I’ll do,” Marinelli said. “If the field needs to be mowed, I’ll bring my hand-mower out. … There’s no job too small.”

Smith surrendered the play-calling duties after taking over for then-defensive coordinator Bob Babich following the 2008 season.

Smith and Marinelli had discussions the day before the Bears fired four offensive coaches, including offensive coordinator Ron Turner. Smith then interviewed Perry Fewell, who decided to become the Giants’ defensive coordinator rather than join the Bears.

The Bears seem to really be grasping for straws here. As their options decrease, the team might have to settle on Marinelli. At least Smith is familiar with Marinelli as they did both work together under Tony Dungy in Tampa Bay from 1996-2000.

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