Dec. 10--Injured Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs isn't sure what fate awaits embattled defensive coordinator Mel Tucker at the end of the season, but the 12th-year veteran has enough experience to know that tenuous job security is a reality for coaches on teams with bad records.
On Briggs' TV show Tuesday night on Comcast SportsNet, he was asked if he believes it would be unfair for the organization to replace only Tucker after the season.
"That's a tough question for me to (answer)," Briggs said. "I know that...on a lot of these occasions, it's not just our defense that's bad. We've been collectively--we win as a team, we lose as a team. But in this day and age, I understand the NFL and this business. You've got to have your fall guys, so we'll see how it goes. You never know what's going to happen and what decisions are going to be made. Those are decisions I'm lucky that I (don't) have to make."
A year ago in Tucker's first season, the Bears allowed a franchise-record 478 points. They allowed 6.18 yards per play, worst in the NFL.
This season, the Bears (5-8) have surrendered a league-high 378 points. They're allowing 6.03 yards per play, 29th in the NFL.
Briggs said Tucker has handled the pressure with poise.
"Mel has fought hard to go out and get things done the best he knows how and try to put us in position to win in a lot of these games," he said. "Unfortunately we haven't been able to do that."
rcampbell@tribpub.com
Twitter @Rich_Campbell
