Personnel chief leaves

The Bears' turbulent offseason hit another bump Monday as the team parted ways with Bobby DePaul, senior director of pro personnel.

DePaul was the team's personnel director for the past nine seasons. He played a key role in the Bears' acquisition of Jay Cutler last spring, and the organization credited him with helping to shape the roster for three division title teams and an NFC title team during the past decade.

DePaul joined the Bears in 2001 after spending four years as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles' player personnel department. DePaul was an assistant coach in the NFL for eight seasons before joining the Eagles' front office.

The Bears offered no reason for DePaul's departure, saying only that the 21-year NFL veteran was "relieved of his duties." The team dismissed four assistant coaches in January, and head coach Lovie Smith and his staff could face an even greater upheaval unless they turn around a franchise that has missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.

-Tom Musick