Mike Martzs future with the Bears is tenuous at best, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, young player development in some question and offensive inconsistency.
But his boss gave him no vote of confidence Wednesday, reacting angrily to a question of whether Martz would be back next season. The question was perhaps out of place, since formal coach and player evaluations are done after the season, not with a game remaining.
Lovie Smith bristled when asked if he planned on bringing Martz back. What kind of question is that anyway? Smith said, angrily. At this time, what kind of question is that? Why would you ask a question like that anyway?
Martz turned down an offer of a one-year extension without a pay raise early last offseason and he is not expected back for a third season running the Chicago offense.
Ive addressed that already and obviously I sure would like to be back, Martz said. I think all that stuff works out. This is going to be a great football team, and Id like to be a part of it.
Well see how it works out. But well address that when the season is over.
The fact that Martzs return has been addressed, per Martz, but the issue is still obviously a loaded one, is probably the clearest indicator yet.