In 2008, Mike Singletary and Mike Martz were both assistants on the San Francisco 49ers staff.

Then, after the ouster of Mike Nolan, Singletary was named interim head coach. And when he was named head coach, Singletary relieved Martz of his duties as offensive coordinator.

"It had nothing to do with his professionalism," Singletary said this morning. "It was a difference in philosophy. I think Mike will do a great job in Chicago.

"I think Mike and I both understand why we parted ways. We just had different philosophies. That's basically it."

Martz downplayed any issues when he was dismissed. Singletary wanted an offense focused more on running the ball than passing it.

"I wish him nothing but the best," Martz said at the time. "I am not what he is looking for offensively. I understand that. This is just a part of professional sports."

A legendary Bears player, Singletary said Martz should thrive in Chicago.

"He'll do a great job, and I think he's perfect for Jay Cutler and I think he'll do a great job with that offense," Singletary said.