Bears fire linebackers coach Lloyd Lee

The Bears fired linebackers coach Lloyd Lee on Tuesday, leaving coach Lovie Smith with three defensive staff positions to fill.

Fired Detroit Lions head coach Rod Marinelli, who interviewed at Halas Hall last week, is still considered a strong candidate to land on Smith's staff after his Monday interview with the Seattle Seahawks did not result in a job.

Defensive line coach Brick Haley, who was not going to be back next season anyway, is expected to be announced as LSU's defensive line coach soon. Last week, defensive backs coach Steven Wilks was fired.

Lee originally joined the Bears in 2004 and spent two years as a defensive quality control coach before becoming a defensive assistant working with the linebackers (2006) and nickel backs (2007). Last season was his first as linebackers coach. Haley spent two seasons as the Bears' defensive line coach.

The Bears finished 21st in total yards allowed, 29th in sacks and 30th in passing yards allowed.