Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.
I've watched videos of running back Ryan Nall. He looks like a great fit for the Bears. Can you tell us how he performed during the offseason and if you think he has a shot at making the team?
Scott K.
With Jordan Howard, Tarik Cohen and Benny Cunningham at running back, rookie Ryan Nall's best chance to make the Bears' 53-man roster is as a fullback and special teams contributor. The Oregon State product caught the ball pretty well during offseason practices, but the big tests for him will be how he performs as a blocker when the pads come on in training camp and how he fares on special teams in the preseason. Nall possesses the position versatility the Bears like, and I feel he has the best chance to earn a roster spot among the team's undrafted rookies if he plays to his potential.
Who was the first player the Bears ever drafted and how did he fare?
Stan D.
Rockford, Illinois
The first player the Bears ever selected in the draft is a Hall of Famer. Tackle Joe Stydahar was chosen with the sixth overall pick in the first NFL Draft in 1936. He ultimately played nine seasons with the Bears from 1936-42 and again after World War II in 1945-46. Stydahar was named all-NFL in four straight seasons from 1937-40 and helped the Bears win three NFL championships. The West Virginia product was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1967.
I am huge Bears fan and am going to my first game Week 1 at the Packers. I am wondering if there is a time that the players sign autographs before the game.
Kyle
Cherokee, Iowa
Some players sign autographs when they come on and off the field to warm up well before the game, so I'd stand by the Bears tunnel if I were you. But attending a training camp practice is a much better way to get autographs, however. Several players sign every day after practice.
