Former Buccaneers linebacker Hardy Nickerson has resigned his position as Bears linebackers coach.

He told the Chicago Tribune in today's editions that family concerns -- particularly health issues with his mother and mother-in-law -- require his presence at home in North Carolina.

For now, he says, he'll put coaching on the back burner. Nickerson had just completed his first season of coaching, making it a tough decision for the 42-year-old four-time Pro Bowl selection.

"I have some family issues that I definitely have to deal with,"
he told the Tribune. "With three teens and my wife doing all she can, I'm
needed around the house.

"Football is definitely my passion. I enjoy the
challenge of getting the guys prepared every week. Later on down the
line — maybe five years or so — I'm going to consider getting back into the
game."

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