Bears' DB coach Wilks Fired

The Bears have made their first coaching move, releasing defensive backs coach Steven Wilks. Wilks joined the Bears prior to the 2006 season.

Chicago's defensive backs combined for 42 interceptions and 19 forced fumbles under Wilks, but the pass coverage was spotty this season as the Bears went 9-7. A once-dominant defense ranked 21st overall and 30th against the pass, and was particularly vulnerable to slants.

Nickel back Danieal Manning was surprised to hear the news about Wilks.

``Wow, that's a shock,'' Manning said. ``That's the only DBs coach I ever knew, the guy I came into the league with. We came in together. We got our bumps and bruises together.

``I learned a lot from Coach Wilks. I learned how to be a professional. That was his big thing: being professional on and off the field. And he always talked about tunnel vision, about staying focused on the team goals.''

Manning expected a chance to occur, just not in this form.

``Coach Lovie Smith told us after the last game that this wasn't going to be the same team,'' Manning said. ``You expect players to change, but nothing like this so soon. ... I'm quite sure that Coach Wilks is resilient and that he'll bounce back.''