BELICHICK “ABSOLUTELY” PLANS RETURN

Under Bill Belichick, the Patriots have often thrived when inundated with scrutiny from outside of their locker room.

They’ll have to do it again this week as they prepare for their divisional round matchup with the Titans.

Belichick said Monday that it is “absolutely” his intention to return as coach of the Patriots next season, despite reports of turmoil in the franchise involving himself, quarterback Tom Brady and team owner Robert Kraft.

Belichick said he didn’t have anything to add to a joint statement the three men released last week in response to an ESPN report, citing undisclosed sources, that detailed an array of tension.

“I haven’t read the article. I’ve already commented at length about that situation,” Belichick said. “Nothing has happened since then, so I don’t have anything to add to it.”

Nagy new Bears coach.

CHICAGO» The Bears named Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy as their new coach.

Nagy, 39, replaces John Fox, who was fired after posting a 14-34 record in three seasons.

The Bears interviewed five candidates before meeting with Nagy the day after the Chiefs’ playoff loss to the Titans.

Austin join Bengals.

CINCINNATI» Former Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin was hired as the new defensive coordinator of the Bengals. He replaces Paul Guenther, who probably will take the same position with the Raiders.

Norton heads to 49ers.

CALIF.» The SANTA CLARA, 49ers hired former Raiders defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. as an assistant coach.

Coach Kyle Shanahan said Norton will become an assistant coach for the defense and will be in charge of inside linebackers.

Cam injury under review.

N.C.» The NFL CHARLOTTE, and NFL Players Association plan to conduct a joint review to determine if the Panthers followed the correct concussion protocol after Cam Newton took a hard shot from Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata midway through the fourth quarter.