Ex-Lions coach Marinelli talks with Bears about joining their staff

CHICAGO -- Rod Marinelli interviewed for a job on the Chicago Bears' coaching staff Friday, less than one week after he was fired as the Detroit Lions' head coach following an 0-16 season.

Chicago newspapers reported that Marinelli met with Bears officials at their headquarters in suburban Lake Forest. It wasn't clear exactly what his role would be.

Marinelli and Bears coach Lovie Smith were defensive assistants in Tampa Bay and have remained close friends. Bears general manager Jerry Angelo also tried to hire Marinelli as defensive coordinator when Smith became Chicago's head coach in 2004.

Even so, agent Frank Bauer told the Chicago Tribune there's no guarantee Marinelli would accept an offer from the Bears.

Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press