Today, marks a new chapter in Chicago football. Bears general manager Jerry Angelo was fired by President Ted Phillips this morning after an 11-year run as head of football operations.

The move comes as somewhat of a shock comsidering the repeated statements during the season that Angelo’s return was probable for 2012.

This change may be the first in a chain of personnel shifting. However, he team has stated that Lovie Smith’s job is secure for next season, while his assistant coaches are evaluated.

Angelo’s departure is welcomed by Bears fans after a dismal 8-8 finish. Although this year was a disappointment, there were some triumphs during Angelo’s stint as GM. The Bears won four division titles, went to two NFC Championship games, and appeared in one Super Bowl.

Obviously, he successes were trumped by the failures. Despite Angelo’s persistence before the Denver game that his job was secure, the Bears had other ideas.

Any plans he said were being made for the 2012 offseason can be thrown out the window now. The only plans he will be making now are ones to fill his free time.