The Brian Urlacher Phil Emery vendetta hasn’t lost its intensity over the past four years. They say time heals all wounds but this one may take a lot longer. The former Bears All-Pro linebacker no doubt still holds a grudge against the former GM for practically forcing him into retirement back in 2013. However, that might not be the biggest reason he’s upset. Or why he thinks the organization is cursed.
How so? Well it came up during an interview on CBS Sports Radios’ Tiki and Tierney show. He discussed several topics. Most notably why Jay Cutler ultimately failed in Chicago and how incredible it is that he doesn’t know anybody on the roster anymore. This after being ushered out just over four years ago.
His biggest declaration though came when asked why the team has struggled so much since he left. The reason?
Brian Urlacher Phil Emery beef centers on firing of Lovie Smith
“I like to say it’s the Lovie Curse – because since he left, (the Bears have struggled),” Urlacher said. “He got fired being 10-6. I think they fire him either way. Even if we go to the playoffs, I think they fire him. I don’t think the GM liked the way he coached the football team. The guy’s a winner. I love playing for him. I don’t know what the identity of that team is. They sign (Mike) Glennon, then they draft a kid No. 2 – I don’t know what (they’re doing). It’s confusing.”
Considering who Emery replaced him with, it’s impossible to argue the point. Then again it’s fair to wonder how Smith would’ve handled what was clearly an aged and deteriorating roster. Either way Smith, for better or worse was a far superior coach to what Trestman became. As for John Fox, the old veteran inherited the dumpster fire Smith’s replacement left behind. It’s difficult to place the same expectations on him.
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The Bears are now a full-fledged rebuilding team. Expectations are limited for 2017 though some progress is desired. Urlacher no doubt believes the best way that happens is if this new breed of players can forge a similar locker room culture to what Lovie cultivated during his run from 2004 to 2012. The pieces might be coming together with guys like Kyle Long, Akiem Hicks, Danny Trevathan and Jordan Howard all stepping into those leadership roles. It could be just a matter of time before things start clicking.
