Belated Love

On Wednesday, the Chicago Bears signed Coach Lovie Smith to a four-year, $22 million extension. Smith will now earn $3.45 million in 2007. In 2006, Smith received $1.35 million. This extension was vastly overdue.

During his career, Smith has logged a 31-21 ledger. The Bears have won consecutive division championships. This season, they recorded their first Super Bowl appearance since 1985. Smith deserved an extension. He is an excellent coach. However, he is a superior person. He endured abhorrent treatment with class, dignity, and restraint.

Following his initial division title, Smith warranted an extension. However, the Bears flippantly demanded successive crowns. Smith exceeded their mandate. Despite this triumph, he has suffered speculation and innuendo. Finally, this unnecessary overtone has been silenced.

The Bears treatment of Smith was reprehensible. Organizations should not reward fluke seasons. However, Smith’s achievement was phenomenal. He won sans offense with a defensive formula which had previously failed. Smith is remarkable. He merited more than Chicago’s insolent behavior. The Bears should be ashamed.