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.
Perhaps the most exciting thing for some Bears fans to watch is a come-from-behind victory. What do you feel was the team's best comeback?
Napoleon B.
Orland Hills, Illinois
The Bears have recorded three impressive comeback wins the past two seasons. They opened the 2020 campaign by overcoming a 23-6 deficit entering the fourth quarter to stun the Lions 27-23 in Detroit. Two weeks later in Atlanta, they turned a 26-10 deficit entering the final period into a shocking 30-26 victory over the Falcons. Last year the Bears rallied to beat the Seahawks 25-24 on a late touchdown pass and two-point conversion in Seattle. If you're asking me what I feel is the greatest comeback in franchise history, I'll go with the 24-23 win over the Cardinals in 2006 in the Dennis Green "they are who we thought they were" Monday night classic. The Bears rallied from a 23-3 deficit late in the third quarter to win 24-23, scoring two touchdowns on defense and one on special teams (on Devin Hester's game-winning 83-yard punt return with 2:58 remaining). The only comebacks that are even close to that one in my opinion are the back-to-back overtime victories over the 49ers and Browns in 2001 when Mike Brown capped both comebacks by returning deflected interceptions for walk-off touchdowns. The Bears trailed San Francisco 28-9 in the third quarter and Cleveland 21-7 in the final minute of regulation before rallying to win. Back in 2018, I ranked my top 10 Bears comeback victories. Click here to take a look.
Tell us who is the unquestioned leader on the Bears defense. I think a player taking that role is key.
Brian M.
Sacramento, California
There's little doubt that that role is being filled by linebacker Roquan Smith. The Georgia product has recorded at least 100 tackles in each of his first four seasons and was named second-team All-Pro each of the last two years. He's very talented and is also an excellent leader. The Bears defense will be a lot younger this year following the departure of veterans Akiem Hicks and Khalil Mack and I'm sure that Smith and safety Eddie Jackson will both provide valuable leadership to the unit.
Can USFL players be signed by NFL teams after their season is over and are the Bears scouting the USFL?
John S.
Highland, Michigan
Yes, USFL players are permitted to sign with NFL teams following the conclusion of the USFL season in early July. (They are prohibited from joining other leagues such as the CFL or XFL, however.) And, yes, the Bears are scouting the USFL, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to sign quality players—regardless of where they're playing.
