Jerry Angelo responds to kickoff rule change

NEW ORLEANS – NFL owners passed a new rule that moves kickoffs from the 30- to 35-yard, something Bears coach Lovie Smith was adamantly against.

Smith was not available for comment.

But Bears general manager Jerry Angelo offered a diplomatic answer.

“Were disappointed that it went in the direction it went, given our situation. But it’s not necessarily about the Chicago Bears. It’s about the National Football League,” Angelo said, “and we understand, that given the information we’ve been given the last two days, why they did what they did, and we’re very comfortable.

“We’ll make some adjustments, but it’s still going to be a part of the game. I’m very confident that our coaches will do that.”

A league source said seven teams, including the Bears, voted against that rule change.